Cost Of Living Crisis - Scams, Advice and Guidance

Scams

Energy Bill Refunds

Nearly every household in Britain is eligible for the energy bill rebate. You’ll be paid this automatically and there is no action for you to take. If you’re contacted by email or text with an offer to claim or apply for the rebate, this is a scam.

Do not open messages or click on links within messages if you’re not sure they’re genuine.   

Cost of Living Payments

If you receive tax credits or a low-income benefit, you will receive a Cost of Living Payment. You’ll be paid automatically in the same way you usually get your benefit or tax credits.

If you’re contacted with an offer to claim or apply for the payment by registering through a link, this is a scam. Visit the correct organisation’s website when applying for benefits rather than opening a link in a message.

Supermarket and fuel giveaway offers

As food prices rise, fake supermarket discounts and special offers are rife. Several supermarkets and brands have been spoofed in fake emails and adverts on social media with offers of too good to be true deals, competitions, and giveaways. Always check the brand’s official website or social media to confirm an offer is genuine.

‘Friend in need’ messages

Scammers may send fake text messages and instant messages on WhatsApp, posing as someone you know in need of help. If you’ve had an unusual request from a family member or friend asking for money or help to pay a bill urgently, calling or requesting a voice note is the best way to check someone is who they say they are and can ensure you’re not scammed. You can secure your WhatsApp account using the two-step verification feature.

Investment and get-rich quick opportunities

Concerns about rising bills can make it tempting to look for ways to make extra money. However, be wary of calls or messages with investment opportunities that offers fast returns and pressures you to send money quickly. It’s a scam.

Before making important financial decisions, speak with trusted friends and family members, seek professional financial advice, and check the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) Scam Smart website.

Impersonation scams

Scammers often pretend to be a trusted organisation such as a bank, the police, a government department, or a service provider. If someone calls and asks you to transfer money to a ‘safe account’ or asks for your personal or financial information to protect your account from fraud, this is a scam. Do not give out bank details, passwords or PINs.

Check the organisation through a route you know to be genuine.