A resident was called on Friday 5th February by someone claiming to work for the Council. She told the man that the Council had re-banded his property and he was entitled to a refund in overpaid Council Tax. She then offered to arrange the refund and asked the man for his bank details.

The man became suspicious, refused to provide his bank details and reported the incident to the Council. Residents who become suspicious when contacted by someone claiming to be from the Council should call Cannock Chase Council on 01543 462621 or Staffordshire Police on 0300 123 4455. Under no circumstances should residents hand over their bank details.

There have been a growing number of Council Tax scams over the past few months and the Local Authorities Co-ordinators of Regulatory Services (Lacors) has warned that similar incidents have been reported across the country.

Cllr John Jillings, Cannock Chase Council Safe, Strong and Cohesive Communities Leader, said: "It is fortunate that this particular resident had his wits about him because if he had handed over his bank details it could have cost him a lot of money. All residents should be on their guard against these bogus callers - whether they knock at your door, make a phone call or send you an email.

"The Council would never approach you in this way to discuss Council Tax rebanding. Call the Council on 01543 462621 to check the credentials of anyone claiming to be from the Council who you may have suspicions about. Alternatively, call the police."