Consumers are being warned about a doorstep scam promising cheap electricity which actually ends up costing them twice as much for their energy.

According to energy companies and government consumer body Consumer Focus, an estimated 85,000 households have been hit by the illegal sale of electricity meter top-ups.

The scam works by selling £50 worth of electricity credit to prepayment meter customers in exchange for a cash payment of just £25 - but customers end up paying twice because the money doesn't going to their energy supplier.

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According to Christine McGourty, director at the Energy Retail Association, a body which represents energy companies: "Just like when you buy something fake online - like a ticket for a football match or a music concert - you're the one who'll end up losing out in the end.

"Energy companies can detect the fraud and you'll end up paying twice for your electricity, first to the criminal and then again to your energy company, who can always detect when electricity has been used, but not paid for through the proper channels."

(CD/GK)