We’ve been shown as many as four different TV licence phishing emails in the last few weeks. Here’s exactly what they look like – have you received one?
We know that periods of uncertainty and distress can be a magnet for scammers – that’s why we had to issue a scam warning during the collapse of Thomas Cook.
Since the outbreak of COVID-19, things couldn’t be more uncertain, so it’s no surprise to see fraudsters attempting to take advantage.
Kate Bevan has put together a comprehensive guide on how to spot and stop coronavirus fraud after the City of London Police reported a 400% increase in scams.
With many of us now at home looking for ways to stay entertained, perhaps we also shouldn’t be surprised to see scammers trying their luck with a tried and tested method; TV Licence phishing emails.
As of March last year, this type of scam had cost victims more than £830,000.
TV Licence scam examples
We’ve been sent four different examples of these fake emails in the last few weeks. Here’s what you need to watch out for:




Clearly some of these are better crafted than others, but the variety and frequency with which they’re being sent to people at such an uncertain time makes them dangerous.
Our phishing emails advice
As always, we’d urge everyone to always be on the lookout for the tell-tale signs of a scam email.
All of these examples are trying to rush you into clicking through to a fake website which will ask for your bank details.
Always double check the sender’s email address, the wording and the branding used. If an email has made you feel uneasy, go with your gut and contact the company it’s purporting to be from via its official channels.
If you think you may have been a victim of this scam, contact your bank immediately and let it know what’s happened.
Our guide also explains how you can get your money back after a scam.
Have you noticed an increase in phishing emails lately? If so, get in contact in the comments and let us know what you’ve seen.