Phone scammers have been targeting residents across Tonbridge and Malling.

The borough council issued a public warning on Tuesday after hearing a fraudster had been calling residents to say they been placed in the wrong council tax band.

He claimed to be a council tax officer and said that in order for a refund to be made tax payers would have to hand over their bank details over the phone.

Cllr Martin Coffin, a cabinet member for finance and innovation, said: “This is the latest in a range of scams aimed at tricking people to part with their bank details and their cash.
“Our officers never telephone residents to ask them to confirm their bank details over the phone.

“We are urging residents to be extremely wary of these unscrupulous individuals who may use a variety of tactics.”

To avoid falling victim of a scam always ask for evidence of what is being claimed and refuse to speak with anyone is reluctant to give their company address or contact details.

You can have their council tax band checked for free by calling the valuation office on 0300 0501 501.

Alternatively visit: www.gov.uk/council-tax-appeals/challenge-your-band.”