People warned to be aware of Census scams

Police are warning people to guard against scams surrounding the Census - which people are being encouraged to fill out online. 

A unique survey that takes place every 10 years, the census provides an overview of all the people and households in England and Wales.

It helps to ensure local areas are appropriately served both now and in the future regarding transport, education and healthcare, as well as give an understanding of the impact that coronavirus has had on different communities.

Census 2021 is a digital-first census, which means people are encouraged to respond online if possible using any device, including a mobile phone or tablet.

Census day is Sunday 21 March but people can fill it in as soon as they get their access code in the post from the Office for National Statistics. People can go online and enter the code into the secure website to get started.

Be scam aware

But police have issued the following advice to ensure people don't get scammed when completing the process: 

• Always use a secure website, entering the URL into a browser or search engine – do not click on links within emails, these may take you to fake websites.
• At no point will you be asked for your bank details or need to provide any form of payment.
• If you require help to fill out your form, this service is free. Useful information can be found here: https://census.gov.uk/help.
• You will not receive any payment for completing the census, so any offers of money in exchange for your account details will be fraudulent.
• No-one will enter your home in relation to the census.

What to expect from census field officers

After Census Day, at the end of March and into April, census field officers will be visiting households where they have not received a completed census form.

They will encourage people to complete the census and help people to access further help if they need it.

Field officers will never need to enter your home - they will be working in the same way as a postal or food delivery visit. They will be wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and working in line with government guidance.

Further information on the 2021 Census can be found on the Government website.