Fake AA, B&Q, Boots and RAC discount emails harvest data via survey websites

Impersonating: AA / B&Q / Boots / RAC

What is this scam?

Which? flagged a wave of scam emails in June 2026 bearing the branding of major UK brands including the AA, B&Q, Boots, and the RAC, claiming recipients have been personally selected for an exclusive discount code or product offer. Clicking the link leads to a third-party survey website that collects personal data — not a genuine retailer — and the details gathered can be used to craft targeted follow-up scams. After completing the survey, victims are redirected to an unrelated retail website with no connection to the impersonated brand.

Example scam message

Email with B&Q branding: 'B&Q has reserved a personal 50% discount code for your next purchase. As a valued customer, complete a short survey to claim your code before it expires: bq-customer-rewards.xyz/survey' [The link goes to a survey site harvesting your personal details — no genuine B&Q discount exists and the survey has nothing to do with B&Q]

Red flags to look out for

  • The message creates urgency — threatening a fine, missed delivery, or account closure.
  • Links lead to unofficial domains that don't match the real company's website.
  • You weren't expecting this message and can't verify the event it references.
  • It asks you to confirm payment details or personal information via a link.
  • The sender's number or email address doesn't match the company's official contact.

What to do if you receive this

  1. Do not call any numbers or click any links in the message.
  2. Log in to your account directly via the official website or app to check for any real alerts.
  3. Forward the message to 7726 or email report@phishing.gov.uk.
  4. 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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Source: Which?