Don’t fall for corona cons

WITH MISINFORMATION RIFE – AND DANGEROUS – MAKE SURE YOU GET THE FACTS, NOT FALSEHOODS

EVERYONE’S looking for the latest information on health, and how to protect you and your family from the coronavirus in these uncertain times.

Fraudsters have been taking advantage of the situation to try to trick people into spreading false information, and even parting with their bank details.

But it’s easy to stay safe by following a few simple steps.

From the rumour that 5G is causing Covid-19, to the myth that sipping water every hour stops you catching it, misinformation is everywhere.

Scams can pop up on your phone too, with fake texts supposedly from the financial Government, help or warning promising of a fine for breaking lockdown.

Your first line of defence is to stop and think before you reply or hand over details.

Hoaxes and health scares add to peoples' anxiety at a time like this, particularly if they're vulnerable or elderly.

So if you've been sent infor-mation that could be false, don't share it. Just because a story goes online, it doesn't mean it's true. See the SHARE checklist, far left, for advice on how to spot fake news. And rely on trusted sources, not rumours, to check facts.

For advice on health, that's nhs.uk. For government guidance on work and money, its gov.uk. Digital Secretary Oliver Dowden said: 'The need for trusted information about coronavirus is vital.

The UK media is performing a key role in getting this to people. "Misleading claims about the virus online could cost lives and we are working around the clock with tech firms to tackle these. We can all do our bit by being sceptical about what we read online.

I urge people to follow these steps to ensure they're not inadvertently spreading dangerous falsehoods

I urge people to follow these steps to ensure they’re not inadvertently spreading dangerous falsehoods OLIVER DOWDEN , DIGITAL SECRETARY