COVID-19 Cyber Security, Fraud and Scams

Unfortunately, Action Fraud – the National Fraud and Cyber Crime reporting centre have seen and increased in relation to Coronvirus related scams.

They provide a whole host of resources on their website as well as their Facebook page.

General Advice

Criminals are using the Covid-19 pandemic to scam the public – don’t become a victim.

Law enforcement, government and private sectors partners are working together to encourage members of the public to be more vigilant against fraud, particularly about sharing their financial and personal information, as criminals seek to capitalise on the Covid-19 pandemic.

Criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations and the police.

They spend hours researching you for their scams, hoping you’ll let your guard down for just a moment.

Stop: Taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe.

Challenge: Could it be fake? It’s ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.

Protect: Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen for a scam and report it to Action Fraud*.

Your bank or the police will NEVER ask you to transfer money or move it to a safe account.

Examples of scams/fraud that are currently on the increase

 

More people may fall victim to #onlineshopping fraud as they self-isolate due to #COVID19.

You are a victim of online shopping fraud if you buy goods from an online seller that never arrive.

 

 

Be aware of emails claiming to be from HMRC offering tax rebates as a result of #coronavirus

If you get a call or message claiming to be from HMRC that asks you to click on a link or to give info such as your name, card or bank details, it’s a scam.

 

People may be worrying about their finances during the #COVID19 outbreak. Lender loan fraudsters will use the opportunity to:

– approve your application for a fast loan regardless of your credit history
– ask you to pay an upfront fee
– take your payment & never provide the loan

 

 

Unsure whether someone on the phone claiming to be your bank or police is genuine? Hang up, wait a minute, then call your bank/police on a known number to verify their identity.

 

 

 

Pension scammers will target anyone, no matter how savvy you are. Make sure to check who you’re dealing with