Members of the public have reported a small number of incidents after being contacted by someone conducting a "lifestyle survey" and claiming to be from Aberdeenshire Council. On one occasion, after being challenged, the caller hung up although consumer protection suspect an attempt would have been made to obtain personal information or bank details.

The council say they did not make the call but they do sometimes conduct surveys by telephone. However, on these occasions, callers would not ask for personal or bank details.

Wilma Urquhart, Consumer Protection Manager for Aberdeenshire Council, said: "New scams are being identified all the time and residents should be vigilant if they receive unexpected telephone calls or letters.

"If consumers are duped and provide bank account or card details they risk having their accounts cleared out and their identities stolen.

"We are working with the Office of Fair Trading to prosecute the criminals behind such scams but the best advice is to be on your guard to ensure you do not fall victim in the first place."

A second scam relating to council tax payments has also been identified recently. Residents have been contacted and told their property has been re-banded and they are due a refund because of over-payment of council tax. The caller then asks for bank or debit card details to arrange this payment. However, if these details are provided their bank accounts could then be accessed by criminals.

The council stressed that it is not contacting residents about banding repayments and would not ask for bank account details under these circumstances. However, if residents are in arrears with their council tax, they may be asked to make payment over the phone. People are advised to ensure they are dealing with council staff if they are contacted.

A genuine caller would be able to provide the council tax reference number or the amounts and methods of recent payments to confirm that they are from the council. Anyone who suspects a caller is not genuine should arrange to make any arrears payment by a different method.
Chairman of Aberdeenshire Council's Infrastructure Services Committee, Councillor Peter Argyle, said: "Any consumer who believes they may be the victim of a scam and have provided financial information should contact their bank or credit card provider immediately.

"Council staff will be able to verify their identity when calling residents and should also be able to provide details of tax payments, including an amount and method of payment.

"As we enter tougher economic times it is more important than ever for residents to be alert in order to prevent themselves, or friends, family and neighbours falling victim to these heartless money-making schemes.

"Under no circumstances should anyone give out personal information and financial details to anyone who asks for them."

Vice-chairwoman of the committee, Councillor Jill Webster, added: "We urge people to be on their guard all year round for unexpected letters, emails, texts and telephone calls with seemingly tempting offers.

"Before responding we ask that you stop and think. If you receive an offer which appears to be too good to be true – then it probably is.
"Anyone can be targeted by these criminals, but those most at risk are often the elderly and vulnerable in our society."

Further information on scams can be found at www.oft.gov.uk and www.consumerdirect.gov.uk. Consumer Direct Scotland can also be contacted for advice or to make a complaint on 08454 040506.