Teignbridge warns of council tax scam

Teignbridge District Council is warning residents to be vigilant after a council tax scam was reported. 

Fraudsters are sending scam emails and making phone calls saying residents may be eligible for a refund on their council tax.

Teignbridge is urging people not to disclose details or submit anything online when asked. A small number have been reported to Teignbridge which is now appealing for people to remain aware and 'if in doubt, check it out'.

If people are not 100% sure that the message has come from us, don’t open it or give information over the phone.

In emails, scammers usually ask for immediate action. Be wary of emails containing phrases like ‘you only have 3 days to reply’ or ‘urgent action required’. If you do open the email and you’re in doubt don’t click on any links or downloads.

Emails from the HMRC will never:

• notify you of a tax rebate
• offer you a repayment
• ask you to disclose personal information such as your full address, postcode, Unique Taxpayer Reference or details of your bank account
• give a non HMRC personal email address to send a response to
• ask for financial information such as specific figures or tax computations, unless you’ve given prior consent and you’ve formally accepted the risks
• have attachments, unless you’ve given prior consent and you’ve formally accepted the risks
• provide a link to a secure log-in page or a form asking for information - instead we will ask you to log on to your online account to check for information

Teignbridge District Council may occasionally ask for payment/bank details by phone when seeking payments for overdue tax bills, or are due a refund but will always be happy for you to phone back via the switchboard, or the automated payment line on 01626 215353.

Residents can also report any suspect emails to Teignbridge by forwarding them to: revandbens@teignbridge.gov.uk