Scammers target £150 council tax rebate - be aware

Scammers are targeting people by pretending to be connected to local councils discussing the upcoming rebate. 

A Kingsbridge Town Council spokesperson has warned that it "didn't take long for scammers to jump on this opportunity" as people begin to get their Council Tax rebates. 

The spokesperson said: "Councils never ask for bank details over the phone. So if you’re contacted this way about the £150 council tax rebate and are asked for personal and bank account details, please hang up. Also, beware of variations of this scam through text and email."

All households in council tax bands A to D will be eligible for the rebate, which isn’t means tested and doesn’t need to be repaid. Those who pay for council tax by direct debit will receive the government’s energy rebate directly into their bank account. If you don’t pay your council tax via direct debit then you will be sent a letter with details of how to claim the rebate. We’ve also seen of variations of this scam being sent by email and text message.

Don’t be tempted to respond to these texts and emails, if you don’t currently pay your council tax by direct debit, you should wait to receive your letter from the council that will explain how to claim the rebate.

Read more: www.which.co.uk/news/2022/04/fake-council-tax-energy-rebate-scam-targeting-households