Beware of Scams Exploiting Hosepipe Bans and the Hot Weather

Fraudsters are once again taking advantage of current events to target the public, with reports of criminals using recent hosepipe bans and the ongoing hot weather as hooks for new scams.

Fake Water Company Messages

Residents are being warned to look out for text messages, emails and phone calls claiming to be from water companies. These communications may invite you to:

These messages can appear genuine, often using realistic branding and links to convincing websites. However, the aim is to steal personal information, banking details or account credentials.

Protect yourself: 

✅ Contact your water supplier using details from their official website or a recent bill.
✅ Be cautious of unexpected messages containing links or requests for personal information.
✅ Never provide bank details unless you are certain who you are dealing with.
✅ Forward suspicious text messages to 7726 to help mobile networks identify and block scam messages.

"Hi Mum" Scams Get a Summer Makeover

Criminals are also adapting the well-known "Hi Mum" or "Hi Dad" scam by using the hot weather to make their story seem more believable.

Victims receive a message claiming to be from their son or daughter using a new phone number because their old phone is broken, lost, overheating or causing problems due to the heat. The conversation often starts innocently before moving on to an urgent request for money or financial assistance.

Remember:

TOP TIP: Set up a secret password juts between friends and family that is unique and not posted anywhere. 

Watch Out for Too-Good-To-Be-True Cooling Products

The recent warm weather has also led to an increase in advertisements for portable air-cooling and air-conditioning products. Some criminals use fake reviews, misleading claims and manipulated images to encourage quick purchases.

Before buying:

✅ Research the seller independently.
✅ Read reviews from trusted sources.
✅ Be wary of deals that seem unusually cheap or promise unrealistic results.
✅ Pay by credit card where possible for added protection.

Stay Alert

Fraudsters are constantly changing their tactics and will often exploit current events, weather conditions and news stories to make scams appear genuine. Call Ask Damian the new 24/7 fraud protect advice service on 01202 144688 for questions about any type of fraud.

If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, report it to Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or online at www.reportfraud.police.uk.