It would seem that even in a global pandemic no-one and nothing is free from the scourge of the scammer so here are just some of the latest for you to be aware of:-
- VACCINES
I would hope that all our members have had their first vaccine but if not then beware of a text scam which if you click on the link takes you to a fake NHS website and asks for bank details to ‘check’ your identity. A genuine NHS site would never ask for your personal and bank details and would never ask you to press a button on your keypad. You do not pay for your vaccine.
- TRACK AND TRACE
You are called by someone saying they are from NHS Track & Trace and they tell you that you have been in contact with someone suffering from Covid 19 and need to have a test sent out. They then ask for your bank details and state that the test and results cost £500. THIS IS A SCAM. If you need a test sent out to you because you are unable to attend a test site, this is done for free, both delivery and collection, followed up by the result.
The NHS Test and Trace service will NOT:
ask for bank details or payments; ask for details of any other accounts, such as social media, ask you to set up a password or PIN number over the phone, ask you to call a premium rate number, such as those starting 09 or 087
- COVID-19 DOORSTEP SCAM
There are people calling door to door claiming to be carrying out Coronavirus testing at your home for you on behalf of NHS or your GP.
NHS teams are NOT conducting any door to door testing for the Coronavirus – these are thieves trying to get into your home. Please call the police if anyone knocks on your door claiming to be conducting tests.
For more information on the different types of scam and what to do Age UK has lots of information @ https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/money-legal/scams-fraud/
If you believe you have been a victim then contact Action Fraud, The National Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting Centre @ https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/
OR call them on 0300 123 2040
