RESIDENTS are being warned of scam texts and emails claiming to be from Tendring Council.

The council has issued a warning after receiving reports fake scam emails and texts have been sent out to people in the district.

Some people have reported receiving text messages or emails claiming to offer a refund on council tax.

The messages contain a link to a website designed to look like Tendring Council’s official tendringdc.gov.uk, but is actually a fake, or asking them to call the number.

This website asks for sensitive personal data, including bank details and identifying information.

Although Tendring Council does use email and text messages to communicate with some residents, the authority has said it will never ask you to submit such personal information in this way.

Ian Davidson, chief executive, said: “What is particularly worrying about this scam is the criminals behind it are targeting the same period as we send out our annual council tax letters.”

As a precaution Tendring Council has temporarily suspended its use of text messages, so anyone receiving a text message purporting to be from the council over the next few days can be confident it is not real.

The scam has been reported to Action Fraud for further investigation.

Mr Davidson added: “I would urge everyone to take heed of this warning, and also to speak to any friends and family to make them aware of this scam, and together we can beat this.”