Scammers are promoting a fake device online, claiming it can lower your bills.
They call it Motex, Voltex, or Voltbox, and it’s priced at around £59 online. However, these gadgets failed basic safety tests conducted by Which?, revealing they pose a fire and electric shock risk, and there’s no proof that they save money.
A better option is to buy smart plugs, which cost as little as £8. These plugs help you monitor energy usage in your home. But be sure to check the reputation of the seller, verify the product’s authenticity, and read reviews from other users before making a purchase.
rotecting yourself from scams, including those related to energy-saving devices, requires vigilance and a cautious approach. Here are some key steps to safeguard yourself:
- Research and Verification: Always research and verify the legitimacy of any product or offer, especially if it promises significant savings or benefits. Check for reviews, consult trusted sources, and look for official certifications or endorsements.
- Verify Sellers: Ensure you are buying from reputable sellers or authorized dealers. Be cautious of unknown or unverified online sellers, and avoid making purchases from unfamiliar websites.
- Safety Certifications: Check for safety certifications or approvals, especially for electrical or electronic devices. Legitimate products should have appropriate safety standards and certifications.
- Read Reviews: Reading reviews from other users can provide valuable insights into the product’s performance and reliability. Pay attention to both positive and negative feedback.
- Comparison Shopping: Compare prices and features with similar products on the market. If a deal seems too good to be true, it may be a red flag.
- Avoid Pressure Sales: Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics that push you to make quick decisions. Scammers often create a sense of urgency to prevent you from thinking things through.
- Check Refund Policies: Understand the seller’s return and refund policies. Legitimate businesses typically offer reasonable return options, while scammers may have vague or unreasonable terms.
- Contact Information: Ensure that the seller provides clear and accurate contact information. A lack of contact details or unresponsiveness can be suspicious.
- Payment Methods: Use secure payment methods when making online purchases. Credit cards or trusted online payment services often offer fraud protection and dispute resolution.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn’t feel right or if an offer seems too good to be true, trust your instincts and exercise caution. It’s better to walk away from a potential scam than to risk your money or safety.
- Report Suspected Scams: If you encounter a suspicious offer or believe you’ve been targeted by a scam, report it to the relevant authorities, such as consumer protection agencies or law enforcement. Reporting scams can help protect others.
- Stay Informed: Stay updated on common scams and fraud tactics. Awareness is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself.
What to do if you’ve been scammed
If you find yourself falling victim to a scam, it’s essential to take immediate action to mitigate any potential financial losses. Here are the steps to follow:
- Contact Your Bank: The first and most crucial step is to get in touch with your bank as soon as possible. Use the phone number provided on the back of your debit or credit card to reach them. Inform them of the unauthorized transaction or scam, and they can initiate an investigation.
- Report to Action Fraud: Report the scam to Action Fraud, either online or by calling 0300 123 2040 (available Monday to Friday, 8am-8pm). Action Fraud will record the incident and provide you with a crime reference number. This reference number may be needed for future reference or claims.
- Refund Possibility: Some banks offer automatic refunds for scam-related losses, but this policy can vary. It’s crucial to inquire about your bank’s specific refund policy when reporting the scam. Generally, if you haven’t authorized the payment and haven’t acted fraudulently or with “gross negligence” (such as sharing your PIN or password), you should be eligible for a refund under current rules.
- Scam Code: In 2019, several banks, including Barclays, Santander, and HSBC, adopted a voluntary scam code designed to enhance consumer protection. This code may provide additional safeguards and support for scam victims. Be aware of any relevant codes or policies that your bank may follow.
- TSB Fraud Refund Guarantee: TSB, in particular, has a fraud refund guarantee in place. They commit to refunding victims who are clearly innocent victims of a scam.
In summary, if you’ve been scammed, take swift action by contacting your bank, reporting the incident to Action Fraud, and understanding your bank’s refund policies and any relevant scam codes. These steps can help you recover your losses and prevent further financial hardship.