Police warn of TV licence phishing emails
They tell you that a TV licence payment has failed, or that account details need updating
Last updated 27th Oct 2026
Residents across Devon and Cornwall are being warned about scam emails, claiming that a TV licence payment has failed, or that account details need updating.
These emails often create a sense of urgency and encourage you to click a link to:
❌ Confirm payment details
❌ Update account information
❌ Avoid losing your TV Licence
The link leads to a fake website, designed to steal your personal, banking, or login details.
Protect Yourself
✅ Be cautious of unexpected emails about missed payments or account problems.
✅ Never click links in unsolicited emails or text messages.
✅ Never enter bank details, passwords, or personal information, after following a link in an email or text.
✅ Check the sender's email address carefully. Criminals often use addresses, which look genuine at first glance.
✅ The genuine TV Licensing website has a scam advice section available here - Helping you avoid TV Licensing scams – and how to report one - TV Licensing ™
If You Have Clicked the Link or Shared Details
🔹 Contact your bank immediately by calling 159.
🔹 Change any passwords or PIN's which may have been compromised.
Reporting
🔹 Forward suspicious emails to: [email protected] and suspicious texts to 7726.
🔹 Report fraud or cybercrime to Report Fraud: 🌐 UK's Home for Reporting Cyber Crime & Fraud - Report Fraud 📞 0300 123 2040
Remember
Criminals regularly recycle well-known scams, because they continue to catch people out.
🛑 Stop. Think. Check.
Taking a few moments to verify a message before responding could prevent you from becoming a victim of fraud.
👥Please share this advice with friends and family.