SOUTHEND environmental health chiefs are warning of a scam in which conmen are "requiring" businesses to close and threatening cash fines.
In a post on Facebook, the council warned of the scam and urged any busineses targeted to demand identification. All council staff have appropriate ID.
Bosses also stress officers will never ask for cash.
A spokesman said: "If you are required to close,you will be issued with a letter or formal enforcement notice."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here