SCAMMERS are attempting to use the current cost of living crisis as a way to trick people out of their hard earned money.
A warning has gone out to make residents aware of a scam that has been reported locally which includes fake text messages claiming to be offering financial support.
The Public Protection Partnership (PPP), that deals with trading standards in the area, has urged residents to ‘please make yourself and others aware of current Cost of Living Scams’.
It describes a fake text messages and email relating to the cost of living and energy. The government is offering help for households but criminals are pretending to offer these support schemes.
These scam emails and text messages come in many different forms and promise financial gain. They are often official looking and pretend to be from the government or HMRC.
One example scam text said: “You are eligible for the government funded £400.00 energy bill rebate. To complete your application, visit: ofgem.secure-reg.com.”
The PPP said other scam examples include:
- Fake cost of living related grants
- Fake cost of living relief funds
- Fake council tax reductions, rebates or refunds
- Fake tax rebates from HMRC
- Fake offers of assistance to help with universal credit applications
Scam text messages can be reported for free by forwarding to 7726, and emails reported by forwarding to report@phishing.gov.uk
