Local scams
This page aims to help make people aware of scams that have been reported in the local area.
This is not an exhaustive list. We will add new scams to this page as we learn about them, so please continue to report anything that raises your suspicions.
Tips to avoid being scammed:
- never agree to work on your house or garden by someone who knocks at your door uninvited
- never give money to or sign any forms from people who turn up on your doorstep
- never allow uninvited callers into your home
- never let somebody take you to the bank to get money for them
Winter fuel scam
We have received reports of residents receiving text messages regarding 'Winter Heating Subsidy Office Benefit Payment Notice' with a link to apply. We urge residents to remain vigilant when clicking any links and/or providing information from unknown numbers.
Household Support Fund (HSF) SMS scam
We have been notified by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) of an SMS scam. This was originally reported by residents living in Worcestershire/ West Midlands. The SMS message advised that the resident was eligible for £900 from HSF if they clicked on a link and paid £1 for their bank details for monies to be paid.
Faulty insulation scam
Residents have reported that companies posing as surveyors have called to say that insulation has not been installed correctly and that for a cost, they would remove this. If you have recently had insulation installed and are contacted by one of these companies, please contact the company that carried out this insulation directly to report any concerns.
QR Code scam
We have seen reports across the North East that scammers are placing fake QR code stickers on Park and Pay/Pay and display machines. These QR codes take people to a fraudulent website where, instead of paying for their parking, the driver shares their payment details and information with scammers.
Outstanding parking fine scam
A number of people have reported receiving a text message that appears to be from a Gov number, saying that a parking fine is outstanding to their local council and to click the link in the messages to pay this.
Premises (Alcohol) Licence holders
We have received reports that there is a scam operating which is targeting Premises (Alcohol) Licence holders. Licence Holders are being contacted by telephone and advised their licence is due to expire the next day, and that payment is required.
We would like to remind people that our Licensing service would never contact you and take payment for your licence over the phone.
Council Tax debt scam
Residents have reported receiving calls and voicemails from an unknown caller advising they have Council Tax debt which is being referred to a debt collection agency, and encouraging them to settle the debt immediately to avoid further action. In all cases the recipients of the calls had no outstanding payments.
If you receive a call like this and suspect fraud, call us on 0191 433 3600 to check if your call is legitimate.