Local residents are reporting that they are being targeted with scam messages about the Energy Bills Support Scheme.
The messages state that you can claim a rebate for your energy bills, and instruct you to click a link within the message, to “apply” for the rebate. This takes you to a phishing website whereby you enter personal details, which are then stolen by the fraudsters.
There is no need to apply for the Energy Bills Support Scheme and you’ll never be asked for your bank details.
Under the scheme, households will receive a £400 discount on their energy bills via six instalments, starting this month.
Find out more at https://www.gov.uk/government/news
Links to fake websites
Fraudulent emails and texts containing links to fake websites are hard to spot because they look so realistic – the message may be almost the same as you’d receive from the company and may even include the official logos.
So what can you do to protect yourself? Always take a moment to stop and think before you give out any information. This simple action could save you hundreds – or even thousands – of pounds. Remember, a genuine firm will never pressure you into an immediate decision.Don’t click on any links sent to you out of the blue, even if it looks legitimate. Go to the official website for the information, or for the correct contact details to get in touch yourself.Never agree to work by anyone who knocks on your door uninvited, or rings you out of the blue. If you want work done on your home, go to the relevant trade association website or local good trader scheme – your council’s website is a good place to start. Or get recommendations from friends and family members. Don’t be afraid to be impolite. If you’re at all suspicious about a caller, you are well within your rights to shut the door on them or hang up the phone.
The Friends Against Scams website can help give you the skills and confidence to spot scams, and to help protect others. Visit www.friendsagainstscams.org.uk for more information.
Above all, it’s important to look after yourself, your loved ones and neighbours. Anyone can be vulnerable due to their situation or circumstances, so we all need to stay alert. Talk about scams and share information. If you think you have been a victim, report it to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.
Please help us raise awareness of this scam by informing your elderly or vulnerable relatives, friends and neighbours.
Please note, we’re unable to accept reports of crime through Your Neighbourhood Alerts. You can report non-emergency crime online here. Always call 999 in an emergency.
Message Sent By
Fraud Protect Officer