SCAMMERS are targeting people in the borough by falsely claiming they are due a tax refund, Wigan Council has warned.

A number of residents have been contacted by people claiming to be council officers who have told them that they are due a refund on their council tax.

They try to arrange a house visit, often saying they do not need to come inside the property and it can all be done on the doorstep.

The council has said such claims were false and warned residents to ignore any such approach.

Clr Terry Halliwell said: “We are urging residents to take extra care. You should not give any personal information out over the phone unless you are sure it is safe to do so.

“Our staff, or any company we work with, would never make an approach like this so please be cautious. If you are uncertain, simply decline to answer the company’s questions and check it out with us.”

Greater Manchester Police have also warned residents about the incidents, urging anyone who is contacted in this way to call the non-emergency number of 101 with any details about the call.

The firm has also been contacting people with letters and emails containing links to official government websites and appear to be legitimate. However, council tax bandings are rarely changed and any change would generally affect a group of properties and would be well-publicised.

Residents who want to know if they are paying the right amount, or if they are owed a refund, can find out by contacting the Valuation Office in Manchester who will investigate for free.