Warning on toxic Covid scammers
Lockdown measures may be easing but banks warn that scammers looking to exploit people’s financial fears are busier than ever.
Trade body UK Finance has named its 10 Covid-19 scams to watch out for.
Official-looking emails offering a “council tax reduction”. These contain links which lead to a fake website which is used to access personal and financial information.
Be careful of fake government emails offering grants of up to £7,500.
Scam emails which offer access to “Covid-19 relief funds” encouraging victims to fill in a form with their personal information.
Fake emails and texts claiming to be from TV Licensing, telling people they are eligible for six months free.
Customers have also been contacted by crooks by email asking them to update their payment details for TV subscription services.
Phishing emails and links claiming to be linked to the NHS test and trace service. These lead to fake websites that are used to steal personal details or infect devices with malware.
Victims are also being targeted by fake adverts for Covid-related products such as hand sanitiser and face masks which don’t exist.
Fraudsters are exploiting people using dating websites by creating fake profiles used to manipulate victims into handing over their money.
Crooks are also preying on benefit recipients, offering to help apply for Universal Credit, while taking some of the payment as an advance for their “services”.
Criminals are using social media websites to advertise attractive investment opportunities that do not exist.