Council tax scam hits Bury

Date: 25th November 2009

Bury Council has warned of a tax scam which is currently doing the rounds among local residents.

The local authority said that people were being cold-called by suspected fraudsters and told that they are due a refund on their council tax.

Callers claimed that the property in question was being reclassified into a different band and that the customer would be repaid the tax difference.

They then ask for residents' banking details so that the transactions can be completed.

However, it is likely that this personal data will be used to commit fraud, as the actual reclassifications and refunds are non-existent.

Bury Council also said that the calls are being made across the country and not just to local residents.

Councillor Paul Bettison, chairman of the Local Authorities Coordinators of Regulatory Services, commented: "No council would ever contact a resident in this manner on such issues.

"Homeowners must remain vigilant and if possible, keep a close eye on vulnerable older family members or neighbours."

Posted by Claire Ford