Story by Rory Poulter

Scammers are trying to take advantage of the energy bills crisis.

People in the borough have received scam emails pretending to be from the energy regulator Ofgem telling them they are due a payment under a government scheme to help deal with bills.

The email provides links for the recipient to follow in order to apply for the rebate.

The links in the emails lead to malicious websites designed to steal personal and financial information.

The scam emails display the email subject header 'Claim your bill rebate now!' and uses the Ofgem brand logo and colours to make the email appear authentic.

Examples of the fake emails have been shared on Cyber Protect UK's Twitter and Cyber Protect Instagram accounts.

Richmond Council said people who have any doubts about a message should contact the organisation directly. And people are warned not to click on the links or use the numbers or address in the message.

It said that if you have received an email which you're not quite sure about, forward it to [email protected] so that they can check them and warn others.

The Energy and Sustainability Editor at consumer group Which?, Emily Seymour, said: "Fraudsters are relentless in their pursuit of people's personal information and money and unfortunately, there has been a huge jump in energy-related scams during the cost of living crisis.

"It is important to remember that the energy discount will be automatically applied by your supplier and they will never ask for bank details. Customers on traditional prepayment meters will receive the rebate via vouchers.

"Consumers should be suspicious of any unexpected calls, texts, emails or knocks on the door about the energy crisis and should contact their energy supplier before giving any personal information."