Cheap electricity scam warning for consumers
8th September 2010
Consumers could end up paying twice as much for their energy should they fall for a cheap electricity scam operated by fraudsters.
Approximately 85,000 households have been affected by the illegal sale of electricity meter top-ups, according to energy companies and Consumer Focus.
A number of customers who bought £50 electricity meter top-ups for a cash payment of £25 ended up paying twice because gas and electricity suppliers did not receive the money.
Electricity pre-payment customers are being urged to only buy top-ups from official sources in a new national campaign.
Christine McGourty, director at Energy UK, which represents all the leading energy companies, said: "This is a serious and widespread scam and we're launching the Top-Up Safe campaign to urge customers to steer clear of the criminals behind it. Just like when you buy something fake online - like a ticket for a football match or a music concert - you're the one who'll end up losing out in the end.
"Energy companies can detect the fraud and you'll end up paying twice for your electricity, first to the criminal and then again to your energy company, who can always detect when electricity has been used, but not paid for through the proper channels.
"Energy companies are determined to bring those responsible for these crimes to justice and are working closely with the police at a local and national level to stamp out this illegal activity."
Copyright © Press Association 2010
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