Residents warned to be wary of energy meter scam

Organised criminals are operating a nationwide scam where residents are tricked into paying twice for their meter credit.

Energy companies and Customer Focus, the consumer watchdog, estimate that 85,000 households have already been affected by the con, which seems to offer cheaper electricity meter top-ups but just ends up with people paying twice.

Some customers are being offered £50 of electricity meter top-up for a cash payment of just £25. Energy companies detect when they have not received payment for electricity used. As the energy credit is illegal any customer buying top-up on the doorstep will end up paying twice, first to the criminals and then to their energy supplier.

The problem is affecting customers of all the leading energy companies, and electricity prepayment meter customers are being strongly urged to only buy top-up through official channels.

Christine McGourty, Director at Energy UK, which represents all the leading energy companies, said: "This 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. It's essential that you only top-up your electricity meter from recognised PayPoint or Payzone shops or the Post Office."

Mike O'Connor CBE, Chief Executive of Consumer Focus, added: "This despicable scam is putting cash in the pockets of criminals and defrauding thousands of people who are already hard pressed in this economic climate. Consumers must be on the alert for anyone who comes to their doorstep claiming to sell electricity credit. Any customer worried that they may have been affected should call their energy supplier or Consumer Direct to seek advice."

If anyone knows someone selling illegal electricity top ups, please contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or Crimestoppers-uk.org