FRAUDSTERS have been targeting homeowners with promises of a council tax rebate.

Redbridge Council urges people to be vigilant after reports of con artists posing as officials and cold-calling taxpayers telling them they are owed money.

The caller tells the victim they were owed a substantial rebate because their council tax band is too high. 

They then say the victim can get a refund once a fee payment is made in advance and ask for bank account details. 

The council says they will never phone out of nowhere to discuss a rebate and that people should never respond to unsolicited phone calls.

People are also reminded that no legitimate organisation will ask for an advanced fee so they can give away money.

Cllr Shelia Bain, cabinet member for civic pride says: “It’s really important that residents stay alert. 

“We are working to stamp out fraud and protect our residents from becoming a victim to it. Help us to stop these criminals by being alert and reporting fraud to us or to action fraud.”

Those who believe they are victims of fraud should hang up the phone and wait five minutes to clear the line as fraudsters sometimes keep the line open.

Victims should call their bank or card issuer on a different line to cancel their card.

Call 0300 123 2040 or click here to report fraud.