Warning over council tax scam emails

Councillor Allen Brett - warning over council tax scam emails

Residents are being urged to be extra vigilant following reports of unofficial emails about council tax refunds.

Emails are in circulation that ask residents to complete an online form with their personal details, so that they can have their refund credited to their accounts.

The phishing emails are designed to look realistic and some even include an advertising banner from a government agency to make them look credible.

Residents who receive these emails are being advised to delete them and also take precautions when it comes to cold calling.

Councillor Allen Brett, Rochdale Borough Council’s cabinet member for finance, said: “It is important to remember that HMRC will not email or ring you to discuss council tax rebates or non-payments, so if you do receive one it’s likely to be a scam.

“There are steps you can take to protect yourself from scams such as not opening email links from people you don’t know, only answering calls from numbers you recognise and never committing to anything from unsolicited contacts. If you are unsure that an email or call is genuine it’s always better to air on the side of caution – delete it or hang up.

“Scams such as these often prey on vulnerable people so make sure your loved ones are fully informed.”

Residents who believe they may have been a victim of a council tax or any other scam should contact Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 03454 040506 or visit www.citizensadvice.org.uk to report it.