The Department of Finance is warning people not to give out personal details over the phone after a recent scam.

It says the fraudulent phone calls purport to come from the Department seeking personal information from taxpayers in connection with a refund of up to €2,000.

The caller tells the recipient that they are due the refund but will need to deposit €250 in lieu of tax due into a bank account.

The caller also asks the person to submit personal details - including date of birth and bank account details.

Advised to contact your bank

In a statement this evening the Department of Finance says these calls are not coming from them.

It adds that the Department never contacts members of the public in relation to payments or refunds.

It is advising anyone who provided bank information in response to these calls to contact their bank or credit card company immediately.