Residents have been warned to be alert after people received calls and emails encouraging them to apply for a council tax refund - if they pay a fee.

The senders pretend to work for Bromley Council and ask residents to send bank card details before extracting large sums of money.

One resident was recently scammed out of £150 after being told she was due a refund on her council tax because her house had been re-banded.

Councillor Kate Lymer, executive councillor for public protection and enforcement, said: "There are many scams operating when we’ll be contacted. If you’re not due a refund, it’s probably a scam no matter how genuine the call or email seems.

"Always be wary of anyone asking for a fee, however plausible, and never hand over your bank details expecting something in return.

"At this time of year, as lots of us see family and friends, this is a good time to warn them to be careful too and think before they act as the scammers often target the trusting, elderly or vulnerable amongst us."

Bromley Trading Standards advise residents:

  • Put the phone down immediately
  • Don’t confirm any personal information
  • Never call a phone number listed in the email

If you believe you are the victim of a scam, contact your bank, and call Citizens Advice on 03456 04 05 06 and Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.