Witney News - Warning issued over council tax scam

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Warning issued over council tax scam

West Oxfordshire residents are being warned to guard against bogus callers telling them their council tax bands maybe too high.

Several residents have been in touch with the District Council saying callers from the 'Claims Review Bureau' have contacted them offering to work on their behalf to obtain a reduction in exchange for a fee of about £80.

But staff have emphasised that anyone wanting to appeal against their band can do so for free by contacting the District Valuation Office.

Cllr Toby Morris, Cabinet Member for Resources, said: "This is a scam and residents must ensure they do not pass on any financial or personal details to these callers.

"Appealing against a council tax band does not require a third party and is free. Anyone receiving one of these calls should end the conversation as quickly as possible."

Residents wishing to appeal against their council tax banding can do so by contacting the District Valuation Office on 03000 501 501.

To report a suspected scam, contact Oxfordshire County Council Trading Standards on 0845 051 0845.

The District Council has also reminded residents that staff would never ask for a customer's bank details via email.

Posted : 01/02/2017 16:36:38

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