Residents have warned to be on the lookout against scammers pretending to be from the council following reports of incidents on social media.
Epping Forest District Council issued the warning after residents had been approached by individuals claiming to be council workers.
Cllr Holly Whitbread, portfolio holder responsible for community safety said: "If you think someone is trying to scam you, shut the door and call the police. Never let anyone into your home unless you are 100% sure they are genuine.
"Unless there are emergency exceptions, we almost never send staff out to you without making an appointment first. Our staff carry ID. If you are not expecting a visit or are in any doubt, you should phone the council on 01992 564000 quoting the ID to double check and make sure.
She added: "Coronavirus has made it even less likely that a genuine person will turn up unannounced on your doorstep.
"Great care is being taken by all reputable organisations to minimise direct contact between people as we battle to reduce the spread of the disease. Council and other staff will only turn up at your home if there is no other way of providing a service and will be happy to wait on the doorstep while you shut them out and check they are genuine."
For more breaking news, local headlines and features, ‘like’ our Facebook page.
We also have a Twitter account: @EppingFGuardian
Follow us to keep up-to-date with news in Epping Forest.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here