Coronavirus-related scams – be aware

The current situation with the coronavirus is unfortunately creating opportunities for criminals to commit fraud.

Be vigilant, particularly about sharing your financial and personal details - don’t become a victim of fraud.

  • Stop: Taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe.
  • Challenge: Could it be fake? It’s OK to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.
  • Protect: Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen for a scam and report it to ActionFraud or call them on 0300 123 2040.

Your bank or the police will never ask you to transfer money or move it to a safe account.

Frauds related to coronavirus which have already been reported include:

On-line shopping scams where orders for protective face masks, hand sanitiser and other healthcare products have never arrived.

  • Fake testing kits offered for sale.
  • E-mails purporting to come from an official organisation seeking personal details or donations.
  • False from government agencies e.g. HMRC, DWP branding on e-mails making offers of financial support.
  • Criminals making efforts to access home computers - don’t divulge your logon details or passwords.
  • E-mails about a breach of the ‘stay home regulations’ demanding payment of a fine.
  • E-mails about free school meal provision looking for personal and financial details.

The Council may be contacting you to offer support.  They will not ask for bank or personal details.

If in doubt about whether a person and the organisation they claim to be representing is genuine, visit their website, call a switchboard number. Genuine callers don’t mind waiting.

Remember: Stop; Challenge; Protect

If you do become the victim of fraud you can report it to ActionFraud / 0300 123 2040.

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