Council Tax reduction scam in South Somerset

Police are reminding residents in South Somerset to be wary of unsolicited mailings, telephone calls and emails following a suspected postal scam about council tax reductions. A number of residents have contacted South Somerset District Council and the Police about a letter they received from a Manchester-based company suggesting they could lower their council tax bills and secure a refund on a no win no fee basis.

The letter enclosed a council tax property questionnaire requesting personal information about the occupier but discrepancies in the letter led some recipients to become suspicious. Crime Reduction Officer, Beth Poole said “Scams such as this are becoming increasingly common. To avoid becoming a victim, never give your personal information, bank details or send money in response to an unsolicited request; register with the mailing, telephone and email preference services and opt out of all marketing when given the opportunity to do so.”

If you think you have been the victim of a fraud or you suspect a scam, you can report it and get advice by calling Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 who provide a central point of contact for information about fraud and co-ordinate the response to fraud in the UK. A spokesperson for South Somerset District Council reassured residents that the council did not send the letter or have any prior knowledge about it being sent. Should residents have any concerns or queries about their council tax banding they can contact the District Council on 01935 462462 or the local Valuation Office Agency based in Taunton on 0300 050 150

 

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