People in North East Lincolnshire are being told to watch out for scammers
Who are exploiting fears over the pandemic to prey on vulnerable members of the public
There's a warning that scammers are using fears over the pandemic to target vulnerable people in North East Lincolnshire.
Trading Standards has received a number of reports of COVID-related cons - which often target older people who are isolated from family and friends.
Some of them include fake vaccination forms, medical supplies and tests.
What kind of scams are there?
Most recently, there have been reports of a new scam where a person receives a text saying they need to book a vaccination appointment. This takes them to a fake NHS form which then asks for their bank details to prove their identity.
Previously, fraudsters have targeted people looking to buy medical supplies online, sending emails offering fake medical support and scamming people who may be vulnerable or increasingly isolated at home.
There has also been a Test and Trace scam circulating across the country asking people to pay for a COVID-19 test. These tests are free and the NHS will never ask for card details.
People are also being warned to remain vigilant to fraudsters posing as contact tracers as the local COVID contact tracing team launched at the end of last year.
Council contact tracers will have official council identification which they will produce. They will never ask for money, financial information, or ask you to click on a link in an email or text.
A real contact tracer will give you information about what you will need to do if you have been identified as a close contact if the NHS contact tracing team cannot get in touch with you. If you are in doubt, say no and contact the council.
We're being urged to look out for vulnerable friends, neighbours or relatives
Councillor Ron Shepherd, portfolio holder for safer and stronger communities, said: “Fraudsters use a variety of techniques for parting innocent victims with their money.
“It is appalling that criminals are exploiting people in what is already an extremely difficult time, so please be on your guard and don’t get caught out.
“Never let yourself be pressurised into doing something you are suspicious of and seek advice.
“People should not take any deal offered over the phone and should instead contact their customer services to confirm if the offer is genuine – whether this is a general scam or COVID-related.
“Don’t do business on your doorstep and never agree to have work done when you’re cold called. If it seems too good to be true, it usually is.
“If a job needs doing, get at least three quotes from different tradespeople and take your time to make an informed decision. Always use a reputable company that people you know and trust have recommended.
“Please look out for your elderly and vulnerable friends, family and neighbours to make sure they aren’t caught out by a scam and report any sightings of suspected rogue traders in the area.”