We are aware of a scam which may be being advertised on social media encouraging people to ‘reclaim’ direct debit payments for rent and council tax.
Victims are asked for their bank details by a third party which contacts their bank and cancels direct debit payments and tries to reclaim them, for a fee.
This type of direct debit reclaim is illegal and could put victims into rent or council tax arrears.
If you’re concerned that you’ve been a victim of this scam, we would encourage you to report it to the Police Action Fraud Team on 0300 123 2040.
Council tax banding
We are also aware some residents have been called by company stating that for £150 they can help to lower their council tax, through re-banding. Although this is not illegal, residents can request a review of their council-tax band, online for free.