Cold callers have been attempting to scam people under the guise of helping them claim a council tax rebate.
The government announced a one-off rebate for most properties in bands A-D in England to help tackle the rising cost of living.
There is no need to apply for the partial refund with the payment being made into banks accounts for those who pay their council tax via direct debit.
For those who don’t, local councils will send a letter with details of how to claim it.
Scammers have attempted to capitalise on the scheme by posing as government representatives over the phone and eliciting personal details, the Local Government Association (LGA) has warned.
They claim details are necessary in order to process the refund.
The LGA has stressed council workers would never ask for bank details over the phone, as it urged people to stay vigilant.
A spokesperson said councils ‘are working hard to ensure eligible residents receive their energy rebate payments as soon as possible’.
They added: ‘However, 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…
