Harrow Council said recent emails asking households to confirm who is eligible to vote are genuine, despite concerns they could be part of a scam.

Several people took to social media to question messages sent by the council as part of its annual canvass process earlier this week.

For example, many on the #Fixit Harrow Facebook group said they were wary as they had never received this kind of email before, while others suggested the email address attached to the link was “a bit fishy”.

However, many said the link was legitimate and pointed to communications put out on the council’s website and through its social media channels.

A spokeswoman for Harrow Council said she could understand people’s concerns, given the number of scams in constant operation, but assured them these emails were genuine.

She explained there has been a greater shift towards a digital process, led by the Government, in light of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Those with an email address on record will be contacted online, with a deadline for submissions set for August 2.

A reminder will be sent if the council does not hear back and, if there is still no response, other communication methods such as via phone or post will be used.

According to the council, it received around 9,000 responses within the first 24 hours of sending out the messages.

It noted that registering on the electoral role has several advantages, including help with renting a property, a boost to credit scores and the chance to have your say in various elections.

People can visit www.harrow.gov.uk/elections for more information and to ease any concerns around the process.