November 03, 2021 - 1549 views
North Wales Police have urged public caution after been alerted to scams regarding switching energy providers or finding new and better deals.
Following the crisis that has seen a number of smaller energy providers go bust and cost increase significantly in recent weeks, scammers have turned the situation to their benefit.
Dewi Owen who is Cyber Crime officer explained. "Criminals will often use major news stories such as the issues currently facing energy suppliers as a chance to pose as a genuine organisation, as well as a bank.
"Often the criminal will pretend to be from the impacted company and claim they are dealing with the issue or offer to provide help, such as switching supplier.
"They use fraudulent emails, phone calls or text messages to contact people. The criminal will then attempt to get recipients to disclose personal or financial information which they will use to steal money.
"Take a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information. Ask yourself could it be fake? It’s ok to reject, refuse, or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.
"Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen for a scam and report it to Action Fraud."
If you have any concerns contact North Wales officers on 101. Share this warning with friends, family and neighbours - particularly older people without the internet who might not be aware that this scam is currently doing the rounds."
