Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge residents have this week been warned to vigilant over a new Council Tax scam.
Sedgemoor District Council has issued the warning after it received reports of a company texting messages to local people, stating a refund is pending for council tax.
Council spokeswoman Claire Faun told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “Please be aware that these text messages are a scam and should be deleted.”
“They ask residents to follow a link provided to claim their refund. The first screen asks customers to confirm their details, followed by the second screen asking for members of the public to enter their bank account details.”
“Sedgemoor District Council would never ask for personal details by text.”
She adds: “Council Tax bands are set by the Valuation Office Agency and can only be changed under certain conditions. Details can be found at www.gov.uk/council-tax-appeals. If you think your band is wrong, contact the Valuation Office Agency – you will not be charged for the service.”
Residents who are struggling to pay their Council Tax bills and need help can speak with a member of the Council Tax Team on 0300 303 7801 who will be able to offer help and advice .
If you have handed over personal details, the council advises you to call the Police straight away on 101 and report the matter as an identity theft scam. The Police will also direct you to the Action Fraud helpline on 0300 123 2040.
