British households are increasingly being targeted by scams linked to their energy costs.
New data from Ocean Finance shows 36 per cent of UK residents received fake messages about energy rebates in the past year.
The findings highlight a rise in criminals exploiting public concern over rising utility bills.
Police and Action Fraud report an increase in cases ranging from fake energy-efficiency products to bogus doorstep sales and fabricated government refund schemes.
The surge coincides with regulatory changes to energy pricing, which scam experts cite as making it easier for fraudsters to exploit anxieties.
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Financial crime specialist Siobhan Blagbrough identified six main scams currently in circulation.
She warned: "Fraudsters follow the headlines. When energy bills rise, they swoop in with scams that look convincing because they mimic real suppliers or government schemes. Their goal is always the same: to steal your money or your personal information."
Ms Blagbrough said criminals rely on panic to pressure victims.
The findings highlight a rise in criminals exploiting public concern over rising utility bills
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"Scammers thrive on panic. They want you to act quickly and not think. If you take a breath, double-check what you've been told, and choose safer payment methods, you become a much harder target," she added.
The first scheme involves texts or emails claiming customers are owed energy refunds.
Victims are directed to fake websites that steal bank details.
"These scams are polished and often use real logos, but no genuine refund will ever arrive by text message," Ms Blagbrough explained.
One scheme involves texts or emails claiming customers are owed energy refunds.
| GETTYAnother scam sees fraudsters pose as the regulator Ofgem.
"Ofgem will never contact you out of the blue about account details or refunds. If you get one of these messages, delete it straight away," she advised.
Worthless gadgets are also being marketed as energy-saving devices.
"From plug-in boxes to magnetic devices for your meter, scammers are flogging gadgets that promise to slash bills. At best, they do nothing. At worst, they're dangerous," she said.
Other schemes involve bogus contractors offering insulation, double glazing or new boilers.
Criminals take deposits for costly work before disappearing.
"If you want energy-efficiency upgrades, always go through recognised government-backed schemes or trusted installers," she warned.
Prepayment meter users are also being targeted.
Fraudsters sell fake keys or cards at discounted rates, leaving victims forced to pay twice for the same energy.
The final method involves imposters visiting homes.
"Scammers knock on doors pretending to be from the energy company to 'check your meter'.
Their real aim is to gather personal details or gain entry to your home. If in doubt, call your supplier directly before letting anyone in," Ms Blagbrough said.
Ocean Finance advises consumers to take simple precautions.
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Ocean Finance advises simple precautions
| GETTY"If you receive a text or email about an energy rebate, ignore the link," Blagbrough urged. "Visit your supplier's official website directly or call them to check."
Payment choice is also key.
"Never agree to pay immediately, especially if you're pushed towards handing cash, a bank transfer or cryptocurrency. Paying with a credit card is safer because Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act can protect you for purchases between £100 and £30,000," she said.
Experts recommend independently verifying any unexpected contact using official channels rather than replying to unsolicited approaches.