Bank’s investigator gets Frank about coronavirus fraud

ALTHOUGH the pandemic has united communities for good causes, it has also created opportunities for criminals.

To increase awareness of Covid-19-related fraud, Frank Anderson, inset – former policeman and now a fraud investigator at M&S Bank – is highlighting common tactics.

Frank says: “Knowledge is power and the more you know about the scams fraudsters might attempt, the better you’ll be at stopping them.” Here are Frank’s tips:

BUYING AND SELLING: Scammers will exploit the demand for items like face masks and Covid-19 test kits, and selling fake or nonexistent products online. Only use websites you trust and be wary of requests to pay via bank transfer. Watch out for deals that are too good to be true.

DOORSTEP FRAUD: Fraudsters have been targeting those who are vulnerable, offering to do their shopping or other odd jobs.

This may seem like an act of kindness, but they may take money or cards and never return. M&S’ ‘we’re all in this together e-gift card’ enables self-isolating customers, or their friends and family, to order a card for the shopper for use as payment in M&S stores, without the need for cash.

‘SAFE ACCOUNT’ SCAMS: This is when someone claiming to be from your bank says your account has been compromised and your money must be moved to another account.

Your bank will never ask you to move money to a ‘safe account’.

NHS/GOOD CAUSE SCAMS: Beware anyone impersonating HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and offering goodwill payments to NHS staff. Never click links from sources you don’t know. Fraudsters may pose as people seeking investment for good causes – such as a cure for Covid-19 – offering high returns for those who hand over savings. INSURANCE AND INVESTMENT

PHISHING: Be wary of unsolicited emails and calls offering attractive insurance or investment opportunities. Don’t reply or click on suspect links.

FREE SCHOOL MEALS: If your child is not at school but was entitled to free school meals, be alert to emails requesting your details to pay the money for their meals into your account.