COVID-19
When coronavirus hit the headlines, scammers didn’t waste any time finding ways to take advantage. From urging people to buy fake goods online like vaccines and facemasks, to targeting vulnerable people on the doorstep. Here are some of the scams that are active right now.
Vaccine fraud
There have reports of fake NHS emails, text messages, letters and even home visits offering COVID-19 vaccinations.
How to protect yourself
Keep an eye out for emails or text messages that look as though they’re from the NHS asking you to share bank details. The COVID-19 vaccine is free, and the NHS will never arrive unannounced at your home to administer it.
What to do
If someone contacts you about the vaccine and you're not sure if they’re genuine, end the conversation and contact your local GP.
Fake government messages
Fake messages from Gov.uk have been doing the rounds offering tax refunds, benefit payments and fines. The messages are designed to entice you to click on a link or call a number that will take you to a fake website or call centre where criminals will try to get you to enter your personal information.
How to protect yourself
Think before you click. Be wary of unexpected emails or text messages asking you to click links or telephone a company. Don’t provide any personal information unless you’re 100% sure who you’re dealing with.
What to do
If in doubt, contact the company by looking up their number, then call them to confirm the message is really from them. You can also report fake government messages to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or at actionfraud.police.uk.
Fake sales
Online shopping increased during the pandemic and so did the rise in shopping sites selling fake virus testing kits, miracle cures, masks and anti-bacterial products.
How to protect yourself
People or companies offering COVID-related products might not be genuine businesses. If it looks too good to be true, it probably is.
What to do
Don’t hand over money, bank details or personal information to any company you’re not 100% sure about. You can also report fake government messages to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or at actionfraud.police.uk.
Fake news
Be careful where you get information about coronavirus. Only use government and NHS websites or reputable news outlets for the latest coronavirus information.
Doorstep fraud
Lots of new groups popped up during the pandemic and, while most had good intentions, not all were genuine.
How to protect yourself
Be cautious about anyone offering services like shopping, home cleaning or medication collection to lonely or vulnerable people.
What to do
It’s always fine to say no and close the door to unexpected callers, whoever they say they are.