PENDLE Council is warning residents to be aware of a council tax scam.

Text messages are being sent to mobile phones claiming that residents are due a council tax refund and are given a link to click through to a website.

But council bosses are warning the message is not genuine and residents could be at risk of losing money.

Council corporate director, Philip Mousdale, said: “Please be on your guard against scams like these.

“We would never contact you this way about a refund so please don’t click on the link or reply to these messages.

“This is bogus and criminal and on no account should anyone provide their bank details or any other personal details.

“Delete the message and spread the word to your friends and families to be aware of this scam.”

Residents are warned not to give bank details to anyone contacting them by e mail or text; and not to let anyone into their home without checking their identification.

Anyone uncertain they are not in the correct council tax band can have it checked free of charge by contacting the Valuation Office Agency.

To check if a message is genuine contact Pendle Council on 01282 661818.