Police urge vigilance after reports of cruel cost of living scam

Police have warned people to be vigilant after reports of a cruel scam targeting residents worried about the cost of living crisis. Officers from GMP said they have been alerted to a scam text message being sent regarding the £400 energy discount recently announced by the Government.

The message asks people to submit their bank account details. But in reality residents do not have to submit any details to benefit from the financial support, as the £400 reduction will automatically be applied to energy bills over a six month period from next month.

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"We have had reports of a scam text message making the rounds regarding the £400 cost of living crisis payment for energy bills," officers on GMP's Wigan West Facebook page said.

"If you receive a text message asking you to submit your bank details please ignore this. The payments will automatically be taken from your bill and will not be transferred directly into your bank account.

"If you have any elderly relatives or friends, please make them aware."

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