Fake British Gas fuel subsidy calls and texts
Impersonating: British Gas
What is this scam?
A surge of scam calls and texts impersonating British Gas and other UK energy suppliers is targeting households, timed to coincide with expected energy price rises in April 2026. Fraudsters pose as energy company representatives offering government-backed fuel subsidies, winter allowances, or free energy-saving devices, requesting bank details to process payments or assess eligibility. Ofgem and British Gas have confirmed they never cold-call customers to offer unsolicited cash subsidies.
Example scam message
BRITISH GAS: Due to recent energy price increases, you may qualify for a Government-backed fuel subsidy of up to £350. To check your eligibility and receive payment, visit: british-gas-subsidy.xyz/claim
Red flags to look out for
- British Gas and other energy suppliers never cold-call or text to offer unsolicited cash subsidies.
- There is no current government scheme paying households £350 directly via energy companies.
- The link goes to an unofficial domain, not britishgas.co.uk.
- Callers may already know your name and address — this doesn't mean they're legitimate.
What to do if you receive this
- Hang up or ignore the message — do not provide bank details.
- If you think you may be eligible for a genuine energy support scheme, check at gov.uk/cost-of-living.
- Report nuisance calls to Ofcom at ofcom.org.uk or forward texts to 7726.
- Report it to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk.
Received this message?
Forward it to 7726 (free on all UK networks) to report it to your mobile provider.
You can also report it to Action Fraud
or email the NCSC at report@phishing.gov.uk.
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