Warning about fake TV licensing emails issued

Fake TV licensing emails are being received by local residents

Fake emails claiming to be from TV Licensing are in circulation, police are warning.

The emails state that the recipients direct debit payment has failed and that they must pay to avoid prosecution.

The email details a ‘COVID-19 personalised offer’, giving six months free, containing links to legitimate-looking websites that are designed to steal personal and financial information.

How to protect yourself from this scam

• Always question unsolicited requests for your personal or financial information
• Never automatically click on a link in an unexpected email or text.
• If you detect a phishing email, mark the message as spam and delete it. This ensures that the message cannot reach your inbox in future.
• Take care not to click any embedded links. Even ‘unsubscribe’ links can be malicious.

Detective Superintendent Estelle Mathieson, Head of GMP’s Economic Crime and Cyber Unit, said: “There is currently a lot of publicity surrounding the coronavirus and it has come to our attention that fraudsters are using what is a time of uncertainty for many and exploiting innocent people out of their hard earned money.

“It is likely that nationally, scams of this type will rise as the virus situation continues, and GMP is committed to identify and targeting these offenders as well as promoting advice to the public. The more information we can give people about fraud and how to protect themselves, the easier it will be to stop it from taking place.

“I would urge the public to follow our advice and take the time to think before they part with their money or sensitive information.

“Anyone who suspects they have been a victim of fraud to report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.”