Residents are being warned not to fall for a scam targeting vulnerable people by claiming to offer a council tax refund .
The shameless ploy attempts to lure people onto a website by suggesting they are due money back for overpaying council tax.
Clicking on the link leads the user to a website where hackers can target bank details.
Forth Valley Police say the scam was spotted on Saturday by a local resident.
A Facebook post by the force read: "The link takes you to a fake website, designed to steal your bank details.
"Do not click on the link, delete the email.
"If you are in doubt of any unsolicited emails, please visit the official website or make contact through an official number."
The added: "These scams target the most vulnerable members of our communities. Share the knowledge and together we can shut out scammers."
This is the second type of scam highlighted in recent weeks.
We previously told how Talk Talk customers were being targeted in a new internet scam offering refunds by email.
Cops issued a stark warning for Scots to be extra vigilant after Action Fraud received over 100 reports in just one week about the scam.
The fake emails have the TalkTalk logo on them and are headed with ‘Get your refund’.
They read: “We’re contacting you to tell you that the cost of your service will be changing from 15th May 2019. Even though some of your costs are going down, your package will not alter.
"Your account balance is currently in credit. Follow the button to process your refund request.”
The emails include a button marked ‘Get your refund,’ taking victims to malicious websites.
Police are urging the public not to click on the links or attachments in this particular email or any other email they receive which appears suspicious.
They also warn against responding to messages that ask for personal or financial details.
More advice on scams can be found on the UK Government website here .
