The Cyber Security Centre for the Isle of Man has warned of an increase in suspicious emails claiming to be from TV Licensing.

The government organisation is urging residents to exercise caution when receiving unexpected emails about their TV Licence, particularly those asking them to click links or provide personal or payment information.

It advises people to check the sender’s email address carefully and avoid clicking on links in unsolicited messages.

Residents are also reminded not to share personal details, banking information or passwords unless they are confident a request is genuine.

Anyone unsure about an email is advised to visit the official TV Licensing website independently, rather than using links contained in the message.

The centre has also highlighted that scams are not limited to TV Licensing or email, with fraudulent requests potentially arriving by text message or telephone call.

A spokesperson from from the Cyber Security Centre commented: ‘Remember, scams aren’t limited to TV Licensing or email. If you receive an unexpected email, text message or phone call asking you to click a link, provide personal information, make a payment or take urgent action, pause and check that it’s genuine first.

‘If you’re unsure, don’t use the links, phone numbers or contact details provided in the message. Instead, contact the organisations independently using details you know and trust.’

The Cyber Security Centre for the Isle of Man (CSC) was formally launched in October 2023 as the public-facing arm of the Office of Cyber-Security and Information Assurance (OCSIA), which sits within the Department of Home Affairs.

The centre provides advice, guidance and practical support to residents and businesses to help them protect themselves against online threats and improve their cyber security.