Rotherham residents urged to be wary of tax scams

The scams, which are being carried out across the country, have been reported in Rotherham, with local residents of all ages being targeted.

Fraudsters are telephoning tax payers and claiming that they are entitled to a refund then asking for bank details to be given over the telephone for the money to be paid into.

Rotherham Borough Council are advising all tax payers to beat the scammers by asking for the full name of the person calling, along with the department that they work in and telephone extension number.

To verify if the caller is genuine, hang up, ring the Rotherham Council Switchboard on 01709 382121 and request the extension number you have been given.

Operational Manager for Rotherham Borough Council's Revenue and Benefits Service, Rachel Humphries, said: "These fraudsters are very clever, they'll tell you anything to get your details out of you, and when they do, they are merciless. But, by having your wits about you, you can beat them at their own game.

"Try question them as much as you can, a genuine Rotherham Council employee will do all they can to help you, but remember, do not give any details out over the phone until you are sure your call was authentic. The smallest bit of information you give could lead to them getting hold of your details."