EPPING Forest District Council is warning businesses to stay alert after reports of a scam targeting owners of licensed premises.

A spokesperson said: “We’ve received reports of a person contacting licensed premises across the country claiming to be a Licensing Officer, and aware of one incident happening recently in the Epping Forest district.

This person called from a mobile phone fraudulently posing as a Licensing Officer, claiming that the premises licence annual fee is due, providing bank account details for immediate payment.

Remain vigilant

Please remain vigilant, our Licensing team will always send out reminder letters for annual fees, which include clear instruction for payment.

If you receive a telephone call from someone claiming to be a Licensing Officer and asking for immediate payment, do not make payment and contact our Licensing team directly – email [email protected].

What to do if you receive a suspicious call

• Do not give out personal information to an organisation or person before identifying their credentials
• Contact the organisation directly – go online and use the details on their official website
• Report a suspicious call or message to Action Fraud – call 0300 123 2040 or use the online reporting tool