Sky has begun sending security alert emails to its customers, reminding them to stay vigilant against scammers. The connectivity company, which serves over 25 million people in the UK—approximately 36% of all households—and employs around 20,000 people, is urging customers to take steps to protect their accounts.
Key Security Tips from Sky
In the email, Sky states: "At Sky, we’re committed to helping you keep your account secure. So, we wanted to give you some tips on how to stay vigilant." The company warns that scammers often pretend to be trusted brands to trick individuals into sharing personal information or placing orders that are then sent to the scammer.
Sky advises customers who receive suspicious calls, texts, or WhatsApp messages to "stay vigilant." The email notes: "Fraudsters can sound convincing, especially if they rush you, pressure you, or offer a deal that seems too good to be true." Customers are told to end the conversation if unsure and check their account details via the My Sky app or sky.com.
What Sky Will Never Ask
Sky emphasizes that it will never ask for the password used to sign into the My Sky app or sky.com, ask customers to place an order on the website while on the phone, tell them to share their screen on any device, ask them to read out full payment card details (unless they contacted Sky first), or pressure them into making decisions. Sky also notes that it always sends texts from "Sky" and advises caution with other senders claiming to be the company.
Customers are encouraged to use the verified Sky UK WhatsApp Business account, which features a blue tick. The email adds: "Remember, if anyone contacts you unexpectedly, sounds urgent, or asks for details, stop and take a moment."
Delivery Scams and Official Returns
Regarding deliveries, Sky warns customers to be wary if someone asks them to return items they weren’t expecting or pressures them to use a QR code or courier. The company states: "If you ever need to return Sky equipment, always use Sky’s official returns process." For more information, customers can visit sky.com/returns or sky.com/scamsafe.
What to Do If You Think You're a Victim
If customers believe they have fallen victim to a scam, Sky advises them to contact their bank immediately if any money or personal information was shared. Then, they should report the incident to Action Fraud, the UK's national reporting centre, by calling 0300 123 2040 or visiting the Action Fraud website. Acting quickly is crucial to protect oneself.
