Image
Reports of scam emails and text messages are increasing, with fake messages claiming to be about energy rebates from Ofgem, the independent energy regulator for Great Britain.
The messages claim that the recipient is due an energy rebate payment or discounted energy bill as part of a government scheme and provides links for the recipient to follow to apply for the rebate. The links lead to malicious websites designed to steal personal and financial information.
"It’s really sad that unscrupulous people always take advantage of changing circumstances with scam tactics," said Cllr Mike Bell, North Somerset Council's deputy leader whose portfolio includes consumer safety.
"This latest scam is taking advantage of the cost of living crisis and targeting people with energy rebate messages at the same time they might be expecting to receive something authentic. Be on your guard and do all you can not to fall for these con artists," added Cllr Bell.
If you have any doubts about a message, contact the organisation directly. Don’t use the numbers or address in the message – use the details from their official website.
Remember, your bank (or any other official source) will never ask you to supply personal information via email.
For more advice about how to keep safe online visit: www.cyberaware.gov.uk and report fraud attempts at www.actionfraud.police.uk.
The non-repayable £400 energy discount will be paid in six instalments, with households seeing £66 taken off their energy bills in October and November, and £67 a month from December to March 2023.
The money will be paid differently depending on how you pay your bill:
- If you've set up a direct debit, or pay by card, the money will be automatically credited to your energy account, reducing what you need to pay.
- Customers with 'smart' prepayment meters will have the money applied to their meter each month, so they'll have to add less credit to their meter.
- Those with 'non-smart' traditional prepayment devices will receive either 'Special Action Messages' or vouchers from their supplier in the first week of each month, by text, email or in the post.
The vouchers will be redeemable at top-up points, such as a local post office, and the discount will be credited to the meter key. It's therefore important your supplier has your current, up-to-date contact details.