Criminals are exploiting the analogue-to-digital switchover to scam vulnerable residents who use health care telephony devices into giving out personal information such as bank details.
Approximately 1.8 million people use the devices nationally, but services reliant on the old landline system are being switched over to new upgraded landline services using digital technology.
The LGA is concerned that the transition has created new opportunities for criminals to target vulnerable residents – for example, by using phishing emails, fake websites or phone calls to trick them into providing personal information.
It is warning that scams could increase as the 2025 switchover date approaches, after recent reports of criminals calling residents with health care devices claiming that they need to hand over bank details as part of the switchover or they will be disconnected.
The digital switchover is free and councils and home care alarm providers will never ask for personal or financial details over the phone.
Councils are already taking steps to crack down on switchover scams, with Staffordshire County Council and Halton Borough Council among those taking action.
The LGA is also calling on the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology to coordinate the multiple bodies involved with the switchover and help with raising awareness to ensure residents are prepared.
Cllr Heather Kidd, Chair of the LGA’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board, said: “We are very concerned by a rise in criminals taking advantage of the digital switchover to trick vulnerable residents into giving out personal information such as their bank details.
“Councils will always act swiftly with the police where any incidents are reported, but we also urge people to be vigilant and help to raise awareness of this crime.”
