The UK’s leading fraud prevention service, Cifas, has issued a scam warning to gas and electricity customers following numerous reports from energy suppliers that many pre-payment account holders have been offered discounted prices by criminals, which could in fact lead to even higher bills.
Millions of households across the country are currently trying to stay on top of the cost of living crisis and reduce spending whenever possible. They may be tempted to take up offers from crooks offering to top-up their meters for a cut-price fee.
However, Cifas warns these techniques are illegal and customers should be aware that energy companies can detect when they have not received correct payment for the energy used and will charge the individual for this, resulting in scam victims paying even more for their gas or electricity.
Anyone who is approached with such a tempting scam is advised to report it to Action Fraud or Police Scotland via 101 for them to investigate.
Cifas, the UK’s leading fraud prevention service, is highlighting the latest fraud threats and warning the public to stay vigilant of the ever-changing tactics that scammers are using to extract money and information.
Commenting on the latest scam, Cifas’ Head of Fraud Intelligence, Amber Burridge, said: “Criminals are always trying new ways to trick people out of their personal details and money.
“Always do your research before parting ways with your details or money, criminals have zero regard for who they trick, meaning it’s important individuals remain alert to potential scams during the current cost of living crisis.”
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