Blackmail and sextortion emails

Reports have spiked in recent weeks of people receiving emails threatening to expose personal information about them if money isn’t transferred. Scammers typically claim they’ve hacked your device and then detail your personal information, such as your usernames and passwords, threatening to expose your data unless you transfer money to them.

If you receive an email like this, don’t panic. That’s exactly what the scammers want and it’s likely nothing will come of it. But here's what you can do if you receive one and how to check if your email address or password has been compromised.

Blackmail emails

Fake energy refund emails circulating again

We sent out a warning about this in May, but it’s back and doing the rounds. With tomorrow’s energy price cap announcement, please be cautious of any energy emails appearing in your inbox.

Find out how to spot a scam energy rebate email.

Fake energy refund emails

There’s now a much easier way to make us aware of scams directly with our scam sharer tool. Tell us your experiences of phishing emails, fake texts, cold calls and other types of fraud.

Stay safe,

Which? Scam Alert team

PS Please share this information with your friends, family and neighbours – anyone who may find it helpful. Alternatively, they can sign up here to receive this directly to their inbox.

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