PEOPLE in Monmouthshire are being warned about a hitech scam claiming they are entitled to a tax rebate.

Monmouthshire County Council yesterday said residents have informed trading standards officers they have received suspicious ‘phishing’ e-mails purporting to have come from the taxman, complete with the HM Revenue & Customs logo.

Phishing is a technique which fraudsters use to gather bank account details using seemingly legitimate e-mails and websites. In this instance residents receive an e-mail requesting they submit their application for a refund and are directed to a link where they are asked to fill in bank details.

HM Revenue & Customs does not inform people of tax rebates via e-mail. HMRC requests that any suspicious e-mails are not opened but are simply forwarded to them at phishing@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk Anyone who believes they have been the victim of a phishing scam should contact their bank and also call Consumer Direct for advice on 08454 04 05 06.