Wednesday, 25 March, 2020
Local
In the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic there has been some targetted fraudulent activity.
For example:
- Fake emails and posts on social media from people claiming to be from the education department offering money back or offering tax rebates to the self employed
- Face masks and hand sanitiser- people buying ineffective facemasks and hand sanitiser some of which contains harmful substances which has been banned for human use.
- People door knocking asking for donations or pretend health workers “testing” for Covid
Please help to keep your volunteers and services users share this information with them.
Some tips to share are:
- DWP, along with many other government departments, are sometimes targeted with fraudulent activity. Please be vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
- Do not share your personal information with anyone else, as this may be used for fraudulent activity.
- Protecting your personal information can help reduce your risk of identity theft.
- If you are contacted by someone claiming to be from the DWP and doubt their legitimacy - please do not share your personal information. Report any suspicious contact immediately.
- Criminal gangs are targeting people to obtain their personal information. If in doubt, please do not share your personal information. Report any suspicious contact immediately
- If someone approaches you claiming to be from DWP, always ask for ID.
- Report any suspicious contact immediately on www.actionfraud.police.uk or phone 0300 123 2040.
If you have any concerns about the safety of your personal information, speak to someone you trust or get help from Action Fraud or Friends Against Scams.
Friends against Scams aims to protect and prevent people from becoming victims of scams.
Be aware of people offering or selling:
- Virus testing kits – these are only offered by NHS.
- Vaccines or miracle cures – there is currently no vaccine or cure.
- Overpriced or fake goods to protect yourself for coronavirus such as anti-bacterial products.
- Shopping or medication collection services
- Home cleaning services
Protect yourself and others:
- Don’t be rushed into making a decision. If it sounds too good to be true it probably is.
- Only purchase goods from legitimate retailers and take a moment to think before parting with money or personal information.
- Don’t assume everyone is genuine. It’s okay to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.
- If someone claims to represents a charity, ask them for ID.
- Be suspicious of requests for money up front. If someone attempts to pressurise you into accepting a service they are unlikely to be genuine. Check with family and friends before accepting offers of help if you are unsure.
Contact
For advice on scams call the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 11 33
To report a scam call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.
Contact your bank if you think you have been scammed.
Find out more on the Action Fraud website.
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