Higher energy costs lead to Scam Alert
This year has been painful in many ways especially with the rise in energy prices.
There are many factors impacting the cost of fuel that we use in our cars and our home and office. The reality is that the price of energy has tripled since this time last year. A shock to everyone's system in the very least.
Government support
In a bid to reduce the impact of these huge price rises on both home and business consumers, the Government has stepped in with a number of packages designed to help. These packages range from capping the price of the energy unit prices to targeted rebates delivered via direct refunds or as credits against your monthly energy bills.
Unfortunately, as we see so often, we are seeing a rise in the number of scammers trying to take advantage of these energy schemes.
Beware of scammers
These "scams" are being delivered in a number of ways. Often seen as text messages, emails, by telephone and recently on social media platforms such as WhatsApp.
An example of fake messages and Emails, finding their way on to your phone and into your inbox, are asking you to apply for the government energy rebate. In fact, this rebate is automatically applied to your bills from this month, October 2022, and so no action is required.
Our advice
One of the best ways to check if a message you receive is a scam, ask your family and friends. Quite often this type of scam gets picked up quite quickly and word spreads fast! Always doubt the validity of this kind of message. Remember, your supplier would never ask you for or require your bank details so don't provide them.
Above all, never be afraid or embarrassed to ask for help and know that we are all vulnerable to scammers.
If you or a friend or relative have been scammed, you can report it to Action Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040.