Chichester District residents are being warned to be vigilant in light of recent incidents involving bogus callers operating along the South coast.
People in Portsmouth and Fareham have already fallen foul of the tricksters, who pose as council officials in bogus telephone calls. They either offer Council Tax refunds or in some cases threaten people with fines. People are then asked for personal and bank details.
The latest scam is to offer a ‘no win – no fee’ service to homeowners who are asked if they wish to appeal against their Council Tax Banding. Chichester District Council is now warning everyone to be vigilant and end any suspect phone call immediately. They should then report any suspicious phone calls, text messages or emails to the Council or the Police.
Any genuine direct phone number given by Chichester District Council would be in the format of 01243 534***. Anyone who doubts the authenticity of a call can contact the Council Tax team on 01243 534501 or email cdccounciltax@chichester.gov.uk .
Councillor John Cherry, Portfolio Holder for Resources at Chichester District Council says, “Scams like this are unfortunately on the increase countrywide and Chichester District residents need to be aware of them. Bogus callers also increase at this time of year, which makes it doubly difficult to know a genuine caller from a bogus one. No council would contact residents in this way and we would certainly not cold call homeowners and ask for their bank details. I would urge everyone to be vigilant and also keep an eye on older relatives or neighbours.”
