Energy theft is all around us, putting us all in danger.
Energy theft is when people tamper with their electricity or gas meters or remove them completely to reduce their energy bills.
Our latest campaign focuses on the “Unknown Danger” that energy theft brings to individuals and communities. Our aim is to raise awareness of the dangers of energy theft and highlight that tampering with your meter to save money is simply not an option. Energy theft can lead to electrocution, fires and gas explosions that lead to damaged property, injury and even in some cases, death.
The Unknown Dangers of Energy Theft
The video brings to life the current struggle people are facing with the energy crisis; thinking about whether to turn the heating on and how bills will be paid at the end of the month. The video features two people in a café talking about how expensive energy is now, and how they could ‘save money’ by tampering with their meter, without realising the dangers energy theft poses. There is also a reference to videos online, that show how to tamper with meters. The exposure to such videos and the struggle to pay bills is most likely increasing the temptation to commit energy theft.
Consequences of Energy Fraud
Committing energy fraud is not just illegal, it is also very dangerous. Electricity theft can lead to shocks, severe burns, and electrical fires. Read more about the dangers of electricity theft and how to spot it.
Gas theft can lead to lethal leaks and catastrophic gas explosions. Read more about the dangers of gas theft and how to spot it.
Stealing Energy is Not a Victimless Crime
Energy theft is a crime that usually goes unnoticed. Approximately 250,000 cases of energy theft go unreported every year, putting us all in danger. Stolen energy adds around £50 a year to the paying customer’s bill, but the real cost is the danger it brings to communities.
If you suspect energy theft you can report it 100% anonymously, 24/7, 365 days a year on 0800 023 2777 or by filling out the online form.
Stay Energy Safe is an anonymous and independent service operated by the charity Crimestoppers, so you can be confident that none of your details will be captured, and your identity can remain anonymous.
Energy Theft. Speak Up. Stay Safe