CRIMINALS are “bombarding” homeowners with fraudulent offers to try and cash in on the cost of living crisis, a leading property association warns today.
The National Association of Property Buyers say the number of scams has now reached epidemic proportions – and will only increase in 2023.
Spokesman Jonathan Rolande said: “There are more and more scams out there and fraudsters are becoming so much more sophisticated in the way they target their victims.
“As well as out-and-out cons linked to offers on green energy and insulation, criminals are now using creative marketing which imply Government backing.
“Some of the scams we’ve seen are linked to subsidies such as scrappage schemes for boilers or grants for insulation. Very often these take the form of discounts on already inflated prices.
“Unsolicited texts and emails, which are increasing in number too, should be treated with suspicion. Many scammers use these to prey on those hoping to save money on their spiralling energy costs. It’s reached epidemic proportions.”
The NAPB warning comes a day after one watchdog warned the number of households being offered fake green home improvements had nearly doubled in a month. Trading Standards said
fraudsters were trying to capitalise on the push towards “net zero”.
An analysis of 10,000 call-blocking devices showed an 85 per cent month-on-month increase in scam artists offering households bogus grants for solar panels, loft insulation, spray foam, double or triple glazing and new boilers.
Trading Standards said households also faced an “onslaught of calls” from scammers trying to capitalise on rising energy prices.
People have been under pressure to make green improvements to their homes by 2035, when properties are expected to have a “band C” energy performance certificate rating.
As part of its drive to phase out gas boilers, the Government is also aiming to install 600,000 heat pumps a year by 2028, despite low demand from homeowners and a shortage of engineers accredited to fit them.
As a result, Trading Standards said a third of people have been targeted by home improvement criminals.
Matthew Upton, of Citizens Advice, said: “Anyone can be a victim of a scam and you shouldn’t feel embarrassed if you’re caught out.
“Reporting your experience gives us the best chance of fighting back and stopping fraudsters in their tracks.”
BREAKOUT: Expert tips to avoid falling for scams:
Source – based on official advice on Gov. website.
1. Watch out for warning signs
Scammers will often contact you unexpectedly, whether that is via a phone call, text message or email. If you do get contacted and offered a free energy review or rebate, it is likely a scam. Simply hang up or ignore any unsolicited text messages promising you more money.
2. Keep up to date with the latest scams
Sophisticated scammers often contact thousands of people with the same text, email or call. Luckily, many news outlets and websites will report on these scams to keep the public. To protect yourself as best you can, it’s important to stay clued up on the latest scams by checking the news. You can always ask a family member or friend if you need help with this. Householders should look directly at Government websites first and not trust all information found on commercial websites. https://www.gov.uk/apply-boiler-upgrade-scheme is a good place to start.
3. Speak to your loved ones
If you think someone fraudulent is trying to contact you, or you have already fallen victim to fraud, it is important to speak to your family and friends. Anyone can be susceptible to scams, especially as they are becoming more sophisticated. Even the most careful people can be caught out.
Make sure you speak to your friends and family, as it can feel a huge relief to open up about how you’ve feeling. They can support you in reporting the fraud and help you cope with any stress, anxiety or worry you are experiencing.
4. Report a scam
You should always report fraudulent activity as this can enable the police or another relevant authority to issue warnings and stop the scammer from contacting more people.
Contact the police via 101 immediately if you feel threatened or if you have transferred money to the scammer in the last 24 hours. You can also report fraud to the Citizens Advice service – make sure you note down all details about the scam, including whether you have transferred any money, who you have been in contact with and the type of information you have shared.
5. Check your current policies
To avoid being taken advantage of, know the basic details about your energy bill—your energy provider, the type and length of your plan, and what services you pay for. If applicable, make sure your partner or spouse knows these basic details so they won’t fall victim to these schemes either.
If your landlord is responsible for paying for your energy, the energy company will know to bill them. Send any letters you receive for non-payment directly to your landlord or property manager.
