Householders have been issued an urgent warning regarding a new energy rebate scam which could see them unknowingly give their bank details to criminals.
Scammers are currently cold-calling people across the country asking them to give their bank details in order to receive the UK Government's £150 council tax rebate.
The rebate, intended to offset the cost of soaring energy bills, is available to households in council tax bands between A and D and is delivered by local authorities.
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As reported by Hull Live, councils have warned people to remain vigilant, and stressed that they would never request bank details over the phone.
Households eligible for the rebate that pay council tax via direct debit will receive the money automatically, while those who do not pay their council tax by direct debit will be sent a letter with details of how to claim.
The Local Government Association (LGA) said anyone who unexpectedly receives a text, email or phone call seeking information or payment should not give out personal information, including bank details, click any links or respond until they can be sure it is genuine. If in doubt, householders should find the details online of the organisation claiming to be in contact and check with them directly.
Vice chairman of the LGA’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board Mohan Iyengar 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."
