Opportunist con artists taking advantage of residents’ virus fears

RENEWED warnings have been issued as con artists continue to target residents with coronavirus-related scams.

Trading Standards experts says fraudsters are praying on people’s uncertainty and fear to convince them to hand over their money for substandard goods, services they don’t need, and scams.

In Lancashire, a cold caller attempted to charge an elderly man £3,500 for power washing his driveway, an incident which is now being investigated by Trading Standards officers.

Police have also received reports of door-to-door sales people offering “home coronavirus testing kits” but these items do not exist.

Reports of cold callers selling hand sanitiser, masks and rubber gloves have also been made and while this may not be a scam, Trading Standards warned people against buying these items from anyone other than recognised retailers.

Scams operating elsewhere around the country include callers and emailers pretending to be suffering from coronavirus with large amounts of money in bank accounts waiting to be claimed.

Messages offering tax refunds and scam emails claiming to be from researchers asking for donations are also being used to steal money and access personal information.

County Cllr Albert Atkinson, cabinet member for technical services, rural affairs and waste management, said: “There really is no limit to the lengths fraudsters will go in order to con people out of their money.

“Unfortunately, they are taking advantage of the coronavirus outbreak to scam vulnerable people.

“We’re doing everything we can to make people aware of these scams as they are reported. I’d urge people to be particularly vigilant at the moment and keep a look out for their neighbours.

“Always say no to cold callers, and be suspicious of any unsolicited communications via phone, email or post.”

He added: “Suspicious websites and fake emails are also being used to spread scams around.

“Don’t act on the emails if you don’t know the sender or think the email looks suspicious. Never click on the link.

“Please check with Trading Standards if you are unsure.”

Contact Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 2231133 or online.

The county council’s safe trader scheme can help you find a trader in your area, contact 0303 333 1111 or go to www. safetrader.org.uk.