COUNCIL bosses have warned against fraudsters who have been targeting residents by disguising as official council workers or as fraudulent documents.

Barnsley Council urged residents to stay vigilant of bogus letters, emails and phone calls about council tax payments, reductions and refunds.

The correspondence, which includes letter headed paper and government logos, appears genuine.

It encourages you to provide personal details in return for reductions and refunds and warns of increased liability if you fail to comply.

A spokesperson for Barnsley Council said: “These are all scams. The links provided have no connection to any local authority and the phone numbers are linked to other fraudulent schemes.

“Be cautious when receiving unsolicited calls, emails and correspondence.

“Don’t be afraid to hang up on a caller, bin a letter, delete an email or shut the door.

“If you think you’ve been scammed, tell your bank and report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.

“Always report a possible scam, it could save someone else from becoming a victim.”