CRAVEN Council is warning people to be on their guard against criminals asking for bank details over the phone in order to receive the government's £150 energy rebate.

The council says residents need to be aware of the phone scam, and is stressing its officers would never ask for bank details over the telephone.

As announced last month, the government’s rebate support scheme is in response to increasing energy bills, with payments of £150 for all households in council tax bands A to D.

The one-off payment is designed to help support residents amid rising global energy prices and will start being paid to eligible households from the first week of May.

Graham Soulsby, chief finance officer for Craven District Council, said: “We have been made aware of an incident where a resident was contacted by a criminal asking for bank details in return for the £150 energy rebate. Thankfully, they hung up without disclosing any personal information.

“I want to take this opportunity to reassure all residents that the council will never telephone anyone unannounced to ask them for their bank details. If you are eligible for the council tax rebate and you pay by Direct Debit, you do not have to do anything - you will automatically receive the £150 payment in your bank account shortly.

“If you don’t pay by Direct Debit, we will be contacting you in early May to provide a secure way for you to upload your bank details”

“Please stay alert and under no circumstances give out your bank details to anyone who contacts you.”

For more details about Craven District Council’s energy rebate scheme, log onto https://www.cravendc.gov.uk/benefits-and-advice/energy-bills-rebate/