Energy Rebate Scams

Folk in Orkney are being warned to be on the lookout for a series of scams linked with the Government’s energy rebate plans.

The Government has announced measures to help both consumers and businesses with the cost-of-living crisis, particularly with energy costs, which has unfortunately led to scammers trying to mislead the public.

The Orkney Scam Action Group has been made aware of a number of scams targeting local folk by text, phone and email advising that they will receive an energy rebate if they follow the link provided. The links lead to malicious websites designed to steal personal and financial information.

Gary Foubister, the Council’s Trading Standards Manager, said: “These are incredibly uncertain times for people in really quite desperate situations and no-one wants to miss out on the financial assistance that is available.

“It is vital to ensure that no-one falls foul of these scammers that you never click on any links or pass on your financial details in this way. Energy rebates are being made directly via energy companies to everyone – there’s no need to take any action.”

For more on the Government’s £400 Energy Bills Support Scheme head here https://www.gov.uk/government/news/400-energy-bills-discount-to-support-households-this-winter

Suspected scams can be reported, or free and confidential advice sought via the Council’s Trading Standards on 01856 873535; Police Scotland on 101; forward scam texts to 7726 or forward scam emails to report@phising.gov.uk . You can also email orkneyscamactiongroup@gmail.com directly and check out any local updates on their Facebook page.