The high prices for gas and electricity are causing uncertainty everywhere. Consumers are worried about whether they will be well protected in the winter and whether they will even be able to cover the energy costs. Scammers take advantage of this.

Many people are therefore looking for savings options and alternatives to make themselves more independent of gas and electricity supplies. For example, there is great demand for solar or photovoltaic systems. Anyone who can burn firewood or pellets stores these raw materials in order to be prepared for the winter and further price increases.

Shortages, high demand and increased prices for alternative energy sources have brought criminals onto the scene. “Nationwide, more and more consumers are becoming victims of fraudulent fake shops on the Internet. Wood, pellets or solar systems ordered online in advance or with a down payment will not be delivered. Instead of taking precautions, consumers suffer significant financial damage.

“Anyone who falls for such criminals should file a criminal complaint. It should also be checked together with the house bank whether payments made can be reversed,” explains Micaela Schwanenberg from the Saxony Consumer Center.

However, consumers can also protect themselves from such fake shops. Price comparisons are effective. If offers are too cheap, you should be skeptical from the outset. If only advance payment is offered as a payment method, it is better to stay away from the shop. Reviews and testimonials from other consumers online can also be informative. You can also find out whether a shop on the Internet is reputable using the consumer advice center's fake shop finder at www.verbraucherzentrale.de/fakeshopfinder .

Article image: Pixabay
Source: Saxony Consumer Center

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