Warning - beware Council Tax 'refund promise'

Residents are being warned to beware unsolicited emails and phone calls urging them to claim a Council Tax refund.

Bury Council has been phoned by a number of people who were asked, allegedly by HMRC, for their bank details or told to click on a link to claim the refund.

Trading standards say residents should be very cautious when receiving emails or phone calls from people they do not recognise which request money or personal information in exchange for financial reward. 

Make checks to ensure the person sending the message is who they say they are. HMRC will never notify people of a tax rebate or offer a repayment by email. 

Residents should report the scam email to the action fraud helpline 03001232040 and forward the email to phishing@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk

Do not provide any details to these people and, if you have, contact your bank ASAP.

ENDS

Issued: 17 November 2016.