NHS Test & Trace scam text warning goes out to Cornwall
People have been receiving messages from unknown numbers
People in Cornwall are being warned about a series of scam text messages claiming to be from NHS Test & Trace.
The messages inform the recipient that they have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid-19 or Omicron and asks them to click on a link to order a test.
They are sent from seemingly random mobile phone numbers – a tell-tale sign they are a scam.
Elizabeth Kirk, Senior Trading Standards Officer at Cornwall Council, said:
“These texts can seem very genuine, but the NHS, government or Public Health Cornwall would never send messages like this from a mobile phone.
“The most important thing is to remember that the scammers want you to click a link. If you click the link, you could enable them to download malware, viruses or other nasties.
“It might also give them access to your passwords for internet banking or any other sites you access from your phone.”
If you click the link accidentally:
- Close the web page it opened ASAP. This prevents further harm.
- NEVER enter passwords or other personal information onto any page you have opened by clicking a link.
- Reset any passwords you may have revealed.
- Update your phone’s operating system.
- Block the number that the text came from.
- Report the scam to Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cyber-crime, run by the City of London Police. Visit the website or call them on 0300 123 2040.
Cllr Martyn Alvery, Cornwall Council’s Portfolio Holder for Public Protection, said:
“Scam calls and texts to mobile phones are a serious problem and some are extremely convincing.
“I would urge anyone who receives a text message that they are unsure about to think twice before clicking any links or divulging any personal information and seek advice.
“For advice on scams call 0808 223 1133 and to report scams call 0300 123 2040. The more you respond to scams, the more you will be targeted.”
Follow Cornwall Trading Standards on Twitter - @TSCornwall - for information on the latest scams and advice on how to avoid becoming a victim.
People can also undertake a 20-minute scam-awareness training programme offered by Friends Against Scams.The Think Jessica campaign also has useful information and tips on avoiding scams.