Paignton people – beware of Council Tax scam!

Torbay Council has sent a new warning to residents today over council tax scams.

A spokesperson said: “We are becoming increasingly concerned as residents have contacted us reporting that they have been called by an Indian call centre advising that they have a credit on their on their Council Tax account, which they can have refunded. They are then asked to supply the caller with details of their bank account."

Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Community Engagement, Cllr Louisa Aiton, said: “If Torbay residents receive any unsolicited phone calls or mailings they are not sure about, they can contact Consumer Direct South West, the Government funded telephone and email advice service, on 08454 040506 or via www.consumerdirect.gov.uk

“Always be suspicious if you receive any unsolicited phone calls or mailings stating that you are entitled to money.  If you do respond you could be asked, like in these incidences, for your personal bank details.

“One of the warning signs to watch out for is when you receive an unsolicited letter, phone call or e-mail. If the offer seems too good to be true, then it probably is.

“It is disgraceful that anyone should be tricked into parting with money without getting anything in return. We hope that through publicity, we will help prevent local people falling foul of these types of scams.”