SEDGEMOOR residents are being targeted by a fresh scam trying to defraud vulnerable people of cash.

Sedgemoor District Council said it has received reports about a company who a texting messages to members of the public stating a refund is pending for council tax.

The scammers ask residents to follow the link provided to claim their refund.

A Sedgemoor District Council spokesman said: "The welcome screen looks very similar to the existing Universal Credit client home screen page and may deceive a members of the public should they receive the text.

"The first screen asks customers to confirm their details, followed by the second screen asking for members of the public to enter their bank account details.

"Sedgemoor District Council would never ask for any personal details by text."

Council Tax bands are set by the Valuation Office Agency and can only be changed under certain conditions.

Details can be found at www.gov.uk/council-tax-appeals.

If you think your band is wrong, contact the Valuation Office Agency - you will not be charged for the service.

If you are struggling to pay your Council Tax bill and need help, you can speak with a member of the Sedgemoor Council Tax Team who will be able to offer help and advice on 0300 303 7801.

If you have given over personal details, you are advised to call the police straight away on 101 and report the matter as an identity theft scam. The Police will also direct you to the Action Fraud helpline on 0300 123 2040.