People of all age groups in Ireland have been the subject of a scam or two over the past few years as the number of victims has been on the rise.
The onset of Covid-19 lockdowns and the introduction of remote working opened up many opportunities for scammers to target workers across the globe.
As with most methods of fraud, they originate in one country and eventually disseminate to many, via copycat scammers or the same organisation simply modifying their messages to relate to their next targets.
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This week in the UK and Northern Ireland, many people have reportedly received messages from scammers purporting to be from the government.
In the text message, the criminals are offering people discounts on their energy bills under the guise of the UK government.
The message reads: “GOV.UK: We have identified you as eligible for a discounted energy bill under the Energy Bills Support Scheme.”
It is followed by a link that brings you to a site that asks you to enter your personal information, before looking for your bank details.
The text appears to be sent by a mobile number, but as more and more people cop on to the scam that appears “genuine,” families are being urged to “ignore” it.
While a scam of this nature has yet to be reported in Ireland, it’s likely going to arrive at some point and as many families and households struggle with the cost of living, some may be tempted to go along with the scam without realising they're being tricked.
Following its arrival in Northern Ireland, SDLP Mark H Durkan took to social media to warn the public to avoid it at all costs.
In a Facebook post, he wrote: “Folks please share, there is an Energy Bill text scam doing the rounds at the moment.
“Disgrace that fraudsters are preying on vulnerable people, many who are in desperate need amid the current costs crisis.
“Please tell friends and family to be vigilant. HMRC will never request personal information or financial details via text.”
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