Council Tax scam

The scam involves an individual calling unsuspecting residents pretending to be a Council officer or a representative from a private company acting for a claims court and informing them of an overpayment or underpayment in Council Tax. They then ask for the resident's bank details to provide a rebate/refund.

What to do if you receive a call:

Please exercise caution if you receive a call from anyone claiming they are a Council officer.

On occasion the Council Tax office will phone residents to discuss payment, however, a Council officer will have all your Council Tax information on hand and will not require confirmation on details.

If you have any doubt as to the authenticity of the call, please take the caller's name and extension number and call the Council's switchboard on 020 8379 1000 and ask for that extension number. You could also check the authenticity of the number by comparing it to what is printed on your local phone book.

In most cases the Council Tax office will notify residents of any refunds due in writing. If you receive a call from anyone claiming they are from the Council and you are due a Council Tax refund, it will be a scam. Do not give out your personal banking details and contact the Council's Trading Standards team immediately on 0845 4040 506.

There are some occasions when Council Tax officers may make visits to properties, however they are usually confirmed by an appointment. If you are visited by a Council Officer please request photo identification and if you are at all in doubt, contact the Council on 020 8379 1000 for verification.

What is a scam?

Scams are a dishonest attempt to make people part with their money. Scams are developed in many forms and there are many different approaches. Anyone can be targeted by a scam through telephone calls, emails or text messages.

Signs to look for:

• If action has to be taken immediately.
• You are asked to provide your bank account details.
• You are asked to make a purchase to win a prize.
• You need to contact a premium rate number.
• You receive an unsolicited call.
• The business contacting you is reluctant to give their address or contact details.

If you are aware of a scam or have experienced a scam, please contact the Trading Standards team on 0845 4040 506.