By Don’t get caught out by Covid-19 scams
Trading Standards are warning people across the country to be aware of the rise in Covid-19 related scams, so that people are not caught out.
Criminals have been exploiting the level of fear and uncertainty about the pandemic to prey on members of the public, particularly older and vulnerable people who are isolated from family and friends.
Many have been targeting people looking to buy medical supplies online or sending emails offering fake medical support.
Scammers are also using Government branding to try to trick people, including reports of using HMRC branding to make fake offers of financial support through unsolicited emails, phone calls and text messages.
Please look out for signs of neighbours being targeted by doorstep criminals. While there are genuine groups of volunteers providing help during self-isolation, there have been reports of criminals preying on residents – often older people or people living with long-term health conditions – by cold-calling at their homes and offering to go to the shops for them, before taking their money.
Consumers should be vigilant and ask for ID from anyone claiming to represent a charity.
There has also recently been a case reported in East Yorkshire of a motorist being stopped by people impersonating police officers trying to demand a £60 fine for non-essential travel. Police are not carrying any such checks out.
A huge increase in the number of people working remotely means more people will be vulnerable to computer service fraud where criminals will try to convince you to provide access to your computer or divulge your login details and passwords.
It is also anticipated that there will be a surge in phishing scams or calls claiming to be from Government departments offering grants, tax rebates, or compensation.
Trading Standards are advising the public to take a moment to stop and think before parting with money or information, and to contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen for a scam and report it to Action Fraud.
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