Electrical Engineers Urged to Reject Requests for Meter Tampering Amidst Soaring Energy Costs

Electrical engineers are being asked to tamper with energy meters due to the high cost of living, with nearly half (43%) of electricians and gas engineers surveyed reporting that they have been asked by customers to do so.

A fifth (19%) also know or work with someone who has seen signs of meter tampering.

The majority (92%) believe that increased costs have led to more people looking to make their meters run slowly to save money on energy.

Tampering with a meter is a "ticking time bomb" and a criminal offense, with severe consequences including a £30,000 fine and the risk of fire and electric shock.

If struggling with energy bills, people are advised to contact their energy supplier or seek benefits advice from Citizen's Advice.