Fake Meter Reading Scams via Phone Calls
How cold callers impersonating energy suppliers collect meter readings, personal details, or payments under the pretence of a routine meter check or billing update.
Part of: Fake Meter Reading Scams
Last reviewed: 9 June 2026
Meter reading calls from energy suppliers do occur — particularly when a supplier needs to verify a customer-submitted reading or when an account is being audited. Scammers exploit this familiarity by making calls that mirror the format of genuine meter reading verification calls. The caller asks for the current meter reading and then transitions to requesting personal or payment information, claiming this is needed to update the account.
The phone format is effective here because meter reading calls are brief, transactional, and expected. Consumers who receive a call claiming to be from their energy supplier to discuss a meter reading are in a receptive and cooperative mindset — the very opposite of the scepticism that would help them identify the fraud.
How this scam works on phone calls
The caller confirms the consumer's name and address — details often available from public records or data breaches — and explains they are calling to verify a recent meter reading or update billing information. After the reading is given, the caller states an error on the account requires a billing adjustment, and asks for bank account details to process a refund or take an outstanding balance. In a second version, the caller charges for a meter reading service that energy suppliers do not charge for.
Common red flags
- Caller confirms address and then asks for bank details to 'process a billing correction'
- Meter reading call followed by a request for payment or financial details
- Caller charges a fee for the meter reading itself
- Caller cannot confirm your account number or supplier name correctly when you ask
- Request to call back a different number than your supplier's published contact
How to protect yourself
- Submit meter readings directly through your supplier's official website or app, not through inbound calls
- Hang up any call asking for payment or bank details after a meter reading discussion
- Call your supplier back using the number on your bill to verify any claimed billing issue
- Know that energy suppliers never charge for meter readings
How to report it
- Report to Ofgem (UK) or your national energy regulator
- Report to Action Fraud (UK) if money was taken
- Report suspicious caller numbers to your telephone provider
Frequently asked questions
Does my energy supplier ever call for a meter reading?
Energy suppliers may occasionally call to verify a reading if there is a discrepancy with industry data. However, they will never follow this with a request for bank details or payment. If asked for financial information during a meter reading call, hang up.
What is the safest way to submit a meter reading?
Submit through your supplier's official website or mobile app. This provides a permanent record with a timestamp. You can also submit by calling the official number on your bill.