BEWARE: Coronavirus scams

Criminals are taking the opportunity in these uncertain times to make the most of coronavirus and prey on the vulnerable. With a 400% rise in online scams and door to door salesman offering testing kits and other products, we all need to keep our wits about us and look out for our neighbours.

Action Fraud have seen a 400% rise in online scams with losses totalling nearly £1 million. These criminals will use any opportunity to exploit you. Scams involving buying medical supplies that are hard to find in the shops or offering fake medical support are popping up online. If it looks too good to be true, then it probably is. Do your research and read reviews of sites that you are buying from, and don't give out your personal details unless you are sure about who you are dealing with.

Trading Standards are also warning of suspicious callers knocking on doors and saying they're health officials doing door to door testing. The message is clear, particularly at a time when we have all been advised to avoid social contact: do not open the door to anyone you don't know or anyone calling you 'out of the blue'.

Remember...

• Be wary of suspicious emails
• Do your research if purchasing online
• Be cautious of unsolicited approaches

If you think you have been a victim of online fraud, please report it to Action Fraud.