Fraudsters have been posing as Dacorum Borough Council officers and offering tax refunds over the phone to residents.

Dacorum Borough Council has received reports of imposters, posing as officers from the council tax department, contacting residents to tell them they may be entitled to a council tax refund.

The caller provides a reference number and a telephone number to call to claim the refund of up to £7,000. Chris Boylett, spokesman for revenues, benefits and fraud at the council, warned: "The Council is not calling residents about Council Tax rebates.

“We would provide any information about refunds in writing.

“Unfortunately there are a number of scams like this. If you receive a call do not call the number you are given.

"I’d like to remind residents to be cautious when giving any personal information or bank details to anyone over the phone and never disclose password type information, such as PIN numbers.

“Dacorum Borough Council only phones to clarify bank details in very rare circumstances.”

To check legitimate council calls, telephone Dacorum’s Council Tax section on 01442 228000.

To report a fraudulent incident call police on: 0845 3300222.