Scam warning to Kent residents

Kent Trading Standards is warning people of a phone scam which has already targeted some residents in the county.

Consumers receive a telephone call from a person pretending to work for either Kent County Council or the local borough council. They are told they have either paid too much council tax and they are entitled to a rebate or that they have not paid enough and need to pay more or they will be fined. The caller then asks for bank details.

Anyone who receives these calls is being advised to not give out any personal information and report it to Consumer Direct who works alongside Kent County Council's Trading Standards officers. Kent Trading Standards has received six calls in the past two weeks alone about this type of scam and many others are likely to have also been targeted but have not reported it. Information from the public is vital to help warn others and crack down on scams.

KCC Assistant Head of Kent Trading Standards Ian Treacher said: "We are pleased that those who contacted us did not give away any personal details but we know there may be those who will and then realise too late that it is a scam. It is important that people know Kent County Council would not contact people about council tax payments and to report any suspicious calls."

To report a suspected scam, people are being urged to call Consumer Direct on 08454 040506 and to use the Consumer DIrect website (link opens in a new window) for practical advice and support.

KCC Press Release

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This Spring 2009 News artile was created on 9th June 2009

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