Police yesterday warned the public to be “extremely cautious” following an increase in text message scams.Residents were advised to take special care when sending funds to people through their mobile phones.A Police spokesman said the Financial Crime Unit has seen a few reports surface of residents receiving a text allegedly from car company Toyota.The message states the company is celebrating its 30th anniversary and tells the recipient they have won £500,000 in the Toyota Awards.The spokesman said such messages are sent out by the thousands. Persons who receive them should not be concerned they have been individually targeted by scam artists.Still, the public was encouraged not to respond to such texts and to remain cautious, the spokesman added.“Once again, members of the public are warned to be extremely cautious when sending funds to persons who have contacted them unexpectedly, especially via text message or to persons whose identity cannot be properly established.”