Watch out for scams

It is sad that at times like this there are people who would try and take advantage of others for their own gain, particularly targeting the most vulnerable in our communities.

Reported scams

Please watch out for some of the scams and fraudulent behaviour operating at this time:

• A new scam is using text messages to pretend to be from the NHS asking you for bank details to book your Covid-19 vaccine. The NHS will never ask for your bank details!
• The BBC are reporting on people exploiting others’ anxiety via technology with examples of email and online shopping scams purporting to be from HMRC, World Health Organisation or virologists. They will contain links or attachments that aim to trick people out of data or money. Read more here.
• Action Fraud are warning you to take extra care with online shopping.
• The British Red Cross have said ‘We’ve heard reports on social media that people are claiming to be Red Cross volunteers and falsely offering coronavirus tests. These are fake: we are NOT conducting any tests anywhere in the UK. We’ve reported it to the police. Please ask to see ID if anyone reaches out to you.’
• West Yorkshire Trading Standards have created a useful poster which shows a number of scams they have identified being used in their area.
• National Trading Standards Scams Team has produced a useful postcard (see above image) on how to avoid scams. You can learn more about different scams on their Friends Against Scams website.
• Test and Trace – How to Stay Safe download this leaflet to avoid being tricked by scammer show may phone you and try to extort money. You never have to pay for NHS tests.

Tips for keeping yourself safe

• If you do not know who someone is, it is ok to ask for ID and refuse entry to your house
• Do not open email links or attachments unless you know, or can check, they are from a legitimate source. Be cautious as fraudsters go to great lengths to make their communications appear genuine
• Age UK have clear guidance on how to spot and avoid scams, or what to do if you have been a victim of one
• Friends Against Scams are offering a free elearning course for you to learn about scams and how to avoid them.
• Before liking, commenting or sharing online information, use the government’s SHARE checklist to make sure you’re not contributing to harmful misinformation.

Page updated 06 January 2021 at 10:30am