Householders have been warned to beware of criminals targeting the government's energy rebate scheme.
The government is now set to provide rebate support in response to soaring energy bills. The payments are set to be administered by councils across the country.
Councils have now warned residents to be mindful that scammers might be pretending to represent officials. Local government bosses have said that genuine callers do not ask for account details over the phone.
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All households that pay council tax by direct debit will receive the payment directly into their bank account. Those who do not pay their council tax by direct debit will be sent a letter with details of how to claim.
Mohan Iyengar, vice-chairman of the LGA’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board, said: “Criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their attempts to take advantage of the financial worries people are facing and as a result many of these scams look legitimate on first impression.
“Anyone can fall victim to a scam, and we urge people of all ages to brush up on the tell-tale signs, and the support available to those who need it. If you get sent a message that you believe to be fraudulent, you can report it to your mobile phone provider or by forwarding the message to 7726, a free reporting service provided by phone operators."
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