Scammers are preying on the uncertainty and worry surrounding rising energy bills in an effort to target unsuspecting Britons. With many worried about higher costs, it is likely some people may have their guard down and fall for scams they otherwise wouldn’t.
One particularly nefarious scam involves energy bill support, claiming Britons are entitled to a rebate or refund.
Lloyds Bank issued a video on the matter, which said: “Beware of texts claiming to be from the Government offering you money off your energy bills.
“Scam messages are being sent with a link to apply for the Government’s Energy Support Scheme.
“If you click the link, you’ll be taken to a site that looks like the Government website – but it isn’t.”
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Scammers could also go on to commit identity fraud in a person’s name, with their bank details, and hard-earned money at risk.
In recent weeks, major suppliers have been forced to warn their customers of similar ruses, as many could inadvertently fall victim.
British Gas warned of an email claiming to offer Britons a refund on their energy bills worth hundreds of pounds which is actually a scam.
Other scam emails and text messages have claimed to derive from E.ON, Scottish Power, EDF, and even the energy regulator Ofgem.
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Ofgem stated it was “alarming” to see vulnerable customers being targeted in this way, and pointed Britons towards the scam guidance of their respective suppliers.
The Lloyds Bank video urged people to protect themselves and stay vigilant.
It added: “If you get one of these texts, don’t reply or click on the link – just delete it.
“You can report scam messages like this for free to 7726.
“Never respond to a text offering you help with your energy bills. It’s a scam.”
People who have any doubts about the legitimacy of a message are always encouraged to contact the organisation directly – using a separate, trusted contact number.
A bank, or any other official source, will never ask people to supply personal details via email.
Recently, detective chief inspector Hayley King from the City of London Police, said: “It is shameful that in a time of financial hardship, criminals are targeting members of the public by claiming they are entitled to receiving rebates and refunds.
“If an email is genuine, the company will never push you into handing over your details.
“Always take a moment to consider if the request you have received is genuine.”
