Beware of bogus council tax callers
Reigate & Banstead Borough Council and Surrey Police are urging elderly and vulnerable residents, to be aware of a council tax scam.
There have been new reports of residents being telephoned by individuals claiming to be from the Council Tax Team, telling residents they are due a council tax refund and asking for their bank account details to refund the money.
An elderly Banstead resident recently received such a bogus council tax call informing her of a £7,000 refund that needed to be credited into her account. The bank details were submitted but the resident later reconsidered her actions and notified her bank and her daughter.
We will never ring unannounced
Cllr Victor Broad, Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Finance, said: “Our Council Tax Team will never ring anyone unannounced to ask for their bank details. If we need to make a refund, a letter will be sent to the resident first, outlining the options for getting the money back. The resident can then call the Council Tax Team if they have any enquiries.
“You should never give bank account details over the phone to anyone, unless you are absolutely certain who they are and why they want the information."
Neighbourhood Sergeant Bex Westmore, said: “It is vital anyone who receives a similar phone call ends it immediately and never discloses their bank account details. Please let us know if you have been a victim of this scam so we can build up a true picture of when and where these offences are occurring.”
Report it
You can report any suspicious calls to Surrey Police on 0845 125 2222.
Any resident who wants to check if a caller is a genuine Council officer, can call our Help Line on 01737 276000.
Last updated : 17/01/2011
