Fake Invoices, Energy Scams And ‘Lost Phone’ Messages Target Islanders

Businesses and residents on the Isle of Wight are being urged to stay vigilant after a surge in scam reports affecting the Island.

Partners working with IWASP (Isle of Wight Against Scams Partnership) say a local company recently received a fraudulent email containing an invoice.

Thankfully, it was identified as a scam before any payment was made—but it highlights a growing threat to businesses.

Anyone responsible for paying invoices is being reminded to double-check all requests before processing payments.

Officials are also warning about a number of other scams currently circulating:

Energy Provider Scams

Residents are being told to be cautious if they receive unexpected calls from someone claiming to be their energy supplier.

If in doubt, hang up and contact your provider directly using official details.

Messages From ‘Friends’ Asking For Money

Scammers are continuing to hack social media and messaging accounts to impersonate people you know.

If you receive a message asking for money or promoting a “too good to be true” financial opportunity, treat it with suspicion and contact the person directly to verify.

Parking Fine Text Scams

There has been a rise in fake text messages claiming you have an overdue parking ticket, often threatening extra charges or licence penalties.

These messages include links to make payments—but they are scams.

Residents are urged not to click on any links and to verify any claims independently.

Rogue Traders Operating On The Island

Reports have also been received of rogue traders offering jet washing services door-to-door.

Trading Standards advise residents not to engage with cold callers and instead use trusted, approved traders through the Isle of Wight Trader Approval Scheme.

Free “No Cold Calling” stickers are also available to help deter doorstep approaches.

‘Lost Phone’ Family Scam Returns

Another scam making the rounds involves messages—often via text or WhatsApp —claiming to be from a son or daughter who has lost or damaged their phone and needs urgent financial help.

Authorities stress this is a scam.

Residents are encouraged not to respond and to verify with their family directly.

Setting up a family password is also suggested as an extra layer of protection.

Businesses can find further support through the national Businesses Against Scams initiative, part of the National Trading Standards Scam Team.

Authorities say the key message is simple: if something doesn’t feel right, take a moment to check before acting.

Anyone who believes they have been targeted by a scam is encouraged to report it to the relevant authorities.