WATER customers in the Tendring district are being urged to be extra vigilant following reports of a bogus caller, claiming to be from Affinity Water.

The fraudster asks customers for bank details to refund overpaid water charges.

Affinity Water spokesman Vincent Muldoon said: “We are very concerned about these unscrupulous people who try to defraud our customers by obtaining their bank details.

"Affinity Water team members would never call our customers to offer them a refund for overpaid water charges.

“Payment for overpaid water charges is made by cheque or direct into the bank account.

“We urge people to be vigilant when they give out personal details over the telephone.

“We would also not leave a card in your door demanding your bank details.”

Mr Muldoon added: “This is just one method that fraudsters use to try to obtain bank, credit or debit card details.

“They often target elderly and vulnerable people, so we would like to urge all who read this message to inform their relatives and friends.”

Customers can register for a password at affinitywater.co.uk which staff have to give before being let into a property.

Anyone who thinks they have been targeted should call their bank or credit card company and the police.

They can also call Affinity on 03453 572407.