Caerphilly County Borough Council has issued warnings to residents over a telephone scam currently targeting those over the age of 65.
A Bargoed resident recently received a telephone call from someone claiming to be carrying out a survey on council tax.
The caller said it had been discovered that the resident had been in the wrong council tax band since 1991 and subsequently was due a large refund.
In order to have this ‘refund’, the resident was advised they’d need to pay £65.
The resident realised it was a scam, and contacted the council’s Trading Standards team.
Cllr Nigel George, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Public Protection said: “To avoid being duped by this type of fraudulent activity, always remember the golden rule – never give bank or personal details to anyone that you do not know or trust, and if in any doubt please get in touch with our Trading Standards team for advice.”
To report an issue to the council’s Trading Standards team, call 01495 235291.
I would advise everbody to check their council tax banding, it is easy to do using this website http://www.gov.uk/council-tax-bands. For years I paid more council tax than my neigbours who lived in a much larger house than mine, it’s worth checking your band and doesn’t take long.