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TV Licensing Refund Scams

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TV Licensing Refund Scams


Police have noted an increase in fake TV licensing refund scams.

The scam email usually states that the refund cannot be processed due to "invalid account details". The links provided in the emails lead to phishing websites designed to steal personal and financial details. Noted below is preventative guidance in spotting scam emails in general.

Always question unsolicited requests for your personal or financial information in case it’s a scam. Never automatically click on a link in an unexpected email or text.

TV Licensing’s tips for spotting a scam email:

  • Check the email contains your name - TV Licensing will always include your name in any emails they send you.
  • Check the email subject line - anything along the lines of "Action required", "Security Alert", "System Upgrade", "There is a secure message waiting for you", and so on, should be treated as suspect.
  • Check the email address - does the email address look like one that TV Licensing use? For example donotreply@tvlicensing.co.uk. Look closely as often the address may be similar.
  • Check for a change in style - often the scammers will take the real emails and amend them. Look out for changes in the wording used, especially if it seems too casual or familiar.
  • Check for spelling and grammar - are there any spelling mistakes, missing full stops or other grammatical errors?
  • Check the links go to the TV Licensing website - hover over the links in the email to see their destination and check the web address carefully. If you are not sure, go directly to the TV Licensing website.
  • Never provide details by email - TV Licensing will never ask you to reply to an email and provide bank details or personal information.

Original Message Sent By
Darren Mills (Safer Communities, North East Division, Police Scotland

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