UNITED Utilities is warning of a fake email claiming people are entitled to hundreds of pounds.

The email states it has come from HM Revenue and Customs and states the person is entitled to £400 credit support from government.

It then directs the recipient to start making a claim by sharing their details.

The email also states the person has a limited time to make the claim.

The water company said: "We’ve been alerted to a spam email being delivered to some people in the North West with the subject 'Water Utilities Bill – Waste & Water Services' that looks like it has come from government depart.

"Please delete this email if you receive it."

The email states it has come from HM Revenue and Customs and states the person is entitled to £400 credit support from government.

It then directs the recipient to start making a claim by sharing their details.

The email also states the person has a limited time to make the claim.

For information on how to stay safe online and how to spot fake emails visit https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/ which explains the different types of scams designed to defraud people.