As we set about doing more shopping than usual in preparation for Christmas do be aware of scams. Friends against Scams is a national initiative which aims to protect us from becoming victims. If you have access to a tablet or computer they offer online training to help you find out more scams. Their website also offers a host of information about different types of scams. Here are some scams doing the rounds in the run up to Black Friday and Christmas this year:
Fake online shopping sites:
Shoppers seeking online bargains in the run up to Black Friday and Christmas are targeted by scammers who have built fake websites for some of the most popular brands. These scammers pay for Facebook and Instagram ads to target social media shoppers who are fans of particular brands, with ads like ‘90% off ’. The sites look and feel exactly like the brand they are pretending to be. But on close inspection you’ll find the website addresses and email aren’t correct. You also may be encouraged to buy an item as quickly as possible, and to spend more money.
The soaring cost of energy bills is prompting fraudsters to expand the types of scams they are using to part victims with their cash. Here are details of some current energy related scams:
Fake refund
Scammers pose as a major supplier and announce on email that you are entitled to a refund on your energy bills because of a “miscalculation”. One version saw fraudsters pose as Eon claiming people were entitled to an £85 refund, with a link to enter bank details to get your money. Many who received it weren’t with Eon so this raised red flags, but some were.
What you can do: Check the email display name. Names reportedly used by scammers include eonhelp.com or Eon Winter Payment. Call your energy supplier using the number on its website. Also, check what your most recent bill says. And remember that in current times it’s unlikely that you will be due a refund. Your supplier would never contact you to request your bank details, as it already has these for your direct debit payments.
Debt collector scam
Fraudsters are taking advantage of customers whose energy suppliers have gone bust over recent years. The debt collector demands claim they have an outstanding balance on their account. Emails may even be addressed by name, as customer information passes through many channels when a firm goes under, such as energy brokers, new suppliers, and debt collection agencies. Find out more about what happens if your energy supplier goes bust in this article What happens if my energy supplier stops trading?
You should never receive a request years later, as has been the case for scammers who targeted Brilliant Energy customers. If you receive a request for a debt you were unaware of from a previous energy supplier you should contact Action Fraud either online or by calling 0300 123 2040.
Useful contact points
Stop – Never to anything you don’t want to or make any decisions on the spot. Check – always check someone’s credentials. Ask – always ask someone you trust for a second opinion. Mine – do not give away your personal information. Share – Share your experience with others to lower the risk of being scammed.
Be aware of Scams. And feel free to contact us at Home & Company if you would like us to check anything for you.