Warning: Scam text message

This article is 4 years old

Press Release

Published on 25 November 2020
Archived on 25 December 2020


Officials from Stratford-on-Avon District are warning residents to be on their guard, following reports of a text message scam for business grants.

The District Council has been made aware of a scam in which text messages, appearing to be from the District Council, are being sent advising people to click a link to apply for the grant.

The District Council has not sent any texts for business grants.

Cllr Jo Barker, People Portfolio at Stratford-on-Avon District Council said: "Sadly, we have again been made aware that there is a scam happening locally. This time it's in the form of a text message appearing to be from the District Council asking people to click on the link to apply for a business grant.

"This is most definitely a scam - the Council is not sending text messages about these grants.

"It's dreadful that fraudsters are continuing to dupe people and take advantage of the fact that many residents are suffering financially as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic.

If you have received any correspondence about business grants that asks you to click a link, please delete it.

"If you have any doubts whether correspondence sent to you is genuine please contact the District Council and officers will be able to help you."

How to avoid scams

  • Stop: Take a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe.
  • Challenge: Could it be fake? It's okay to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.
  • Protect: Contact your bank immediately if you think you have fallen for a scam and report it to Action Fraud.


Advice on how to protect yourself from fraud can be found at Take Five - a national campaign offering advice that helps prevent fraud: https://takefive-stopfraud.org.uk/


Contact details

Stratford-on-Avon District Council
Elizabeth House, Church Street,
Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire,
CV37 6HX
Tel: 01789 267575

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Last updated on 25/11/2020