Fraudsters are targeting OAPs and telling them they need to set up a direct debit for their TV licence.
The email scam comes after all over-75s but those on Pension Credit were stripped of the lifeline benefit this month – forcing them to shell out £157.50 a year.
Scrapping free licences led rebel OAPs to plan to “gum up” the system by paying by cheque.
Now, thousands of pensioners have had official-looking emails from fiends cashing in amid the confusion of the changes.
A spokesman for police helpline Action Fraud said: “TV Licensing will never ask you to reply to an email and provide bank details.
"Just because someone knows details such as your name and address, or even your mother’s maiden name, it doesn’t mean they are genuine.”
The email says the direct debit for their licence could not be renewed automatically, adding: “Today is your last chance.”
It urges them to click a link where they can update bank details.
And it includes a friendly message assuring them it is “sent from a trusted sender”.
The BBC said: “Be extra careful when considering whether to enter their personal information.
“If unsure about an email, you can sign in to your licence online at tvl.co.uk to check details.”
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