Scammers and criminals are cold-calling Newcastle householders asking for bank details to get the UK Government’s £150 energy rebate claims the Local Government Association (LGA)
Central government announced the rebate earlier this year following protests from the fuel poverty lobby and opposition MPs in response to sharply rising energy bills, with payments administered by local councils for all households in council bands A to D.
Be alert
Local city councillors like Kenton’s Ged Bell have urged local residents to be alert to the scam, noting that Newcastle Council would never ask for details over the phone or on the door-step.
Coun Bell said:
”If you pay by direct debit you’ll get the £150 rebate directly into your account. If not, the council will be contacting you to arrange the rebate, but will not be knocking on your door or ringing you asking for details.”
The City Council is also operating a ”discretionary scheme” as part of its Household Support Fund aimed at helping vulnerable ”cash-strapped residents”. For households in receipt of Council Tax Support (From April 1 2022) and living in tax bands A to D, will get £168 paid from May 2022.
The LGA also pointed out that any resident who gets a text, e-mail or phone call seeking info or payment shouldn’t disclose personal data, including bank details, or click any links or respond.
