Energy customers warned about doorstep scammers

Gas and electricity customers have been warned to be on the lookout for criminals posing as doorstep energy salespeople offering cut-price prepayment plans.

Consumer Focus and the UK's leading energy companies estimate that around 85,000 households may have been affected by the scam, during which the criminals offer credit for pre-pay meters at a reduced price on consumers' doorsteps.

British Gas, EDF Energy, npower and Scottish and Southern Electricity customers are among those that have been subject to the fraud.

Energy UK, which represents all of the major energy companies, has launched a new Top-Up Safe campaign aimed at raising awareness of the problem.

The organisation's Director, Christine McGourty, explained that consumers could end up paying double what they owe if they are taken in by the fraud.

She noted: "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."

Recent research by uSwitch.com indicated that some consumers may already be paying over £100 per year more than fellow Britons for their gas and electricity bills.

Research by the price comparison site revealed that the gap between the most expensive and the cheapest energy deals could be up to £100 in some cases.

Posted by Martin Ellis