Severn Trent warns customers about bogus callers

Customers have received calls threatening to cut off the water supply

Severn Trent is warning customers to be “extra vigilant” after several people have received bogus calls from somebody claiming to work for the company and threatening to cut off water supplies.

Customers, who have received such calls, have been told the water supply will be cut off the following morning for not paying their water bill.

Elaine Taylor, security and resilience lead, at Severn Trent, said: “We often hear about people trying to access homes by saying they’re from ‘the water board’, but this kind of phone call is unusual and obviously worrying for our customers. We can’t stress how important it is for customers to check the identity of the person calling to make sure it is a genuine call. Our agents are more than happy to give their names on calls and which department they are from.”

She added: “Just to reassure our customers – we would never cut anyone’s water supply off out of the blue – we’re always trying to help our customers who are struggling with their bills. 

“We’re very aware that people can struggle to pay their bills for a whole range of different reasons, which is why we’re proud to provide support to people who need it the most.

“We’re absolutely committed to reaching out to those who need our help, and our dedicated team will always be on hand for advice and assistance.  We’d encourage anyone who thinks they may benefit from our range of support schemes to get in touch with us and we’ll see if we can help.”

The company is also warning customers to be “wary” of people who turn up at the door claiming to be from Severn Trent.