Council warning over 'fake licensing officer' scam

Businesses in Derbyshire are being urged to "be vigilant" after claims a fake licensing officer has been contacting premises and demanding overdue annual fees.

North East Derbyshire District Council said it had received "recent reports of a scam" involving requests for money.

In one instance, the council said a business was called by a person "demanding immediate payment" and threatening to suspend their licence.

It recommended anyone feeling "pressured" to contact its customer service team to verify if a payment was required.

"Officers will never call and ask directly for payment," the council said.

"Scammers will go to great lengths to exploit businesses, so we urge people to be vigilant and protect their establishments."

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