Date issued: 18 February 2019
Residents are being advised to be alert to spam emails and phone texts which say they are entitled to a Council Tax refund and to click on a link to be reimbursed.
The number of emails and texts which falsely claim to be sent from .GOV.UK or HMRC has increased recently, just as this year’s Council Tax bills begin to land on householder’s doormats.
These messages are not genuine and you should not click on the link or provide any personal details.
Look out for any strange ‘From’ addresses, fake logos or spelling mistakes, which indicate the email or text is bogus.
If you are in any doubt, please call Colchester Borough Council on 01206 282300 or email council.tax@colchester.gov.uk.
Cllr David King, Colchester Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for Resources, said: “The Internet has become one of the most popular tools used to commit fraud, and criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated with their hacking techniques. As a result, we want to help our residents stay safe from fraudsters who are potentially trying to take financial information or hack into devices.
“Be very careful responding to unsolicited messages from an unfamiliar source about your Council Tax and, above all, if you have any doubts about who sent it, please contact our Council Tax team. For general advice on staying safe online, residents can also check out the Get Safe Online website.”
If you have been a victim of a scam, please contact the Police (101) immediately or report it to Action Fraud.
Page last reviewed: 18 February 2019