RESIDENTS in Studley and Alcester are being warned to be vigilant after an ‘identity theft phone scam’ has been reported in Sttratford district.
The District Council is warning residents not to be taken in by a company claiming to be acting on their behalf.
Residents have told how a company has been calling them and is charging a £150 up-front fee, which is taken from the residents’ bank accounts, in return for ‘lowering their council tax band’.
District Council leader Councillor Tony Jefferson said: “This is not a phone call from Stratford-on-Avon District Council – do not give anyone your bank account details.
“Council tax bands are set by the Valuation Office Agency and can only be changed under certain conditions. Even the District Council can’t change your council tax band.
“If you have given over personal details, we would advise you 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.”
If residents think their council tax band is wrong, they can contact the Valuation Office Agency to use the free service – https://www.gov.uk/council-tax-appeals.
