Stay alert to avoid fraudsters in Sussex over Christmas
Southern Water say anyone claiming to be 'from the water board' is not to be trusted
Last updated 19th Dec 2021
Sussex residents are being urged to stay extra vigilant this Christmas, to avoid fraudsters targeting you over the phone and online.
South East Water says everyone needs to remain wary of people claiming to be 'from the water board'.
Tanya Sephton, Customer Services Director at South East Water, said: “When callers use the phrase ‘water board’ it is often a big giveaway as this is not a term legitimate water companies have used for many, many years.
“Unfortunately, these criminals can be very believable and persuasive and use our good nature this time of year.
“If you have even the slightest bit of doubt as to whether the person at your door is one of our staff or not we urge you to contact us to check.
Tanya continued: “In addition, customers should be wary of unsolicited telephone calls or emails claiming to be from South East Water. “
“Fraudsters are looking to gain access to accounts and will use many techniques – normally over the telephone but increasingly via email – to trick people into handing over their details.
“Please be mindful of any unsolicited emails or telephone calls claiming to be from South East Water, and don’t open the attachments unless you are sure you know who the email is coming from.