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We’re warning residents to be aware of a new scam, and remind everyone of what to do if you have been contacted by a scammer.
Fake text message
A resident recently received a text message claiming the recipient of the message was entitled to a new round of winter heating subsidies approved by their local council. The message urges you to give your details via a link to receive the subsidy within 7 days.
It looked like a genuine text, but was a fake message known as phishing. Criminals use fake messages to get you to click on links in their scam text or email to give away sensitive information such as bank details.
The resident was suspicious of the message and reported it to us immediately.
What to do with a suspicious message
If a message makes you suspicious:
- Stop – don’t click on, or use any numbers or addresses in the message
- Contact the organisation directly – go online and use the details on their official website
- Report the suspicious message to Action Fraud – call 0300 123 2040 or use the online fraud reporting tool
Anyone can fall victim
Councillor Smruti Patel, Cabinet Member responsible for Customer Services said:
Please be vigilant and report any fraudulent attempts immediately. Anyone can fall victim to a scam. Criminals are becoming increasingly clever in their attempts to take advantage of people and many of these scams look legitimate on first impression.
If you have fallen victim to this type of scam, report it to Action Fraud. I also encourage you to contact us and get help if the scam relates to the council.
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