BEWARE OF CORONAVIRUS SCAMS

Protecting ourselves and others against scams is more important than ever this year due to the coronavirus crisis.

Our data shows many new scams have emerged during the pandemic, including adverts for face masks or medical equipment at high prices; adverts selling fake cures for coronavirus; emails or texts pretending to be from the government; emails offering life insurance against coronavirus; and people knocking at the door and asking for money for fake charities. Top tips to avoid scams: •If you see emails or texts about coronavirus from someone you don't know, or from an unusual email address, don't click on any links or buy anything.

• Read emails or texts claiming to be from the government or official services carefully. Look out for spelling errors or typos – these could be a sign they’re not legitimate. If you need a government service, go to gov.uk directly.

• If someone offers to help with food shopping, do not hand any money over until they have given you the food.

Seek advice if you suspect you’ve been targeted by scams:

• Get advice from the Citizens Advice consumer service on 0808 223 1133, or on 0808 223 1144 for a Welshspeaking adviser. Scam advice can also be found online.

• The Citizens Advice consumer service can report problems to Trading Standards on behalf of the individual who has been scammed. Trading Standards are responsible for protecting consumers and the community against rogue and unfair traders.

• Get help with online scams from our Scam Action advisers on 0808 250 5050.