Rip Off Britain is back, tackling scams, subscriptions and sewage from November 11

Published: November 5, 2024 — The Rip Off Britain team is back on BBC One on 11 November at 10.45am, with Gloria Hunniford and Julia Somerville set to tackle the most pressing consumer issues hitting audiences across the UK.

And this series will be featuring special scam episodes as part of Scam Safe week on the BBC.

The scams specials include stories such as fake missing person ads and cheque fraud. The team also uncover the disturbing case of eBay scammers holding a man to ransom, the misuse of cookies by fraudsters, and a shocking story of a house being put up for sale without the owner knowing anything about it. The series will also highlight Amazon account scams via remote access and the potentially lethal fake weight-loss injections being sold online, as well as how the tech industry is responding to the rise in phone theft.

As well as scams and fraud, the series tackles the most pressing consumer issues affecting the nation. The ladies take a look at how miscommunication between vets and insurers is leading to pet owners losing out when their animals get ill, the perils of rapidly spreading bamboo taking root under homes, and the team help a former bank employee from Southampton track down her lost £45,000 pension pot.

In the lead up to Christmas, Gloria and Julia reveal how a damaged passport could sabotage getaways, including the story of a couple from Newport who were barred from boarding their flight after an airline employee told them to remove a sticker. There’s also several cases across the series of homeowners coming home to flooded houses, and in one case flooded with raw sewage. The team take a look at why insurers are refusing to payout for damages.

Gloria Hunniford comments: “I’m delighted to be back in a bid to help the nation once again. Our scam specials will really help audiences to keep vigilant, and be prepared for the clever ways these criminals can get hold of our details, our hearts, and our money!”

Julia Somerville comments: “What I love about Rip Off Britain, is that there is a story for everyone. You might not think you would have a consumer related issue, but we’ve got everyone and everything covered. From pet owners, home owners and anyone with a bank account there will be something we will be able to help with, or raise awareness. Everyone is a consumer and we’re here to get you all the information you may need.”

Rachel Platt, Commissioning Editor for BBC Daytime comments: “At a time when many across the UK face increased financial pressure, Rip Off Britain is more important than ever. I’m delighted we are back investigating and exposing the rip offs – both big and small – that are costing British consumers. With scams evolving, our special episodes are here to educate and inform audiences to help them protect both themselves and those they love.”

Rowland Stone, Executive Producer BBC Studios comments: “In the lead up to Christmas, and with the cost of living continuing to rise, Rip Off Britain is a much-welcomed return. Once again the team is back scouring the UK for the latest consumer issues affecting our audiences. The latest series looks at the fine print in No Win, No Fee cases, the rising costs of ground rent, plus much more.”