We’ve heard of over 22 different COVID-19 related scams over the last week, here are some of those:
– A call received from an individual purporting to be from a cleaning company, offering to clean and spray areas where the virus may be i.e. front door
– Numerous text messages from UK Government regarding fines. The Government have only sent out one text message to the public regarding new rules about staying at home. Others claiming to be from the Government are false.
– A website has been set up, which offers an antivirus program to protect users against the coronavirus. Fraudsters trick users into downloading a remote access trojan and install malware that could infect the user’s device. Once access has been obtained, the fraudster could act as a legitimate user but use this access to steal data and seek financial gain.
– Fraudsters offering free food vouchers then harvesting their data and charging them for marketing texts. Fraudsters are pretending to be major supermarket chains offering free vouchers for shopping in their store – “ASDA has announced that they are giving away free £150 coupon to everyone – get your free coupon at (Weblink)”
– Emails purporting to be collecting on behalf of a charity to assist vulnerable people during the outbreak.
– Individuals selling fake covid 19 test kits.
– Fraudsters are targeting users working from home to invest in bitcoin. Fraudsters try to deceive their intended victims by stating they can earn millions, which leads the victims to click on the fraudulent links.
– Fraudsters attempt to get payment for a fake charity which is assisting with the outbreak.
Please note, this list is not exhaustive and is for information & awareness only.
Should you come aware of any scams (COVID-19 related or not), be sure to report to Police via 101 or directly to Action Fraud: https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/
Stay Safe
Dyfed Powys Economic Crime Team
This must be a day early! Are people really that gullible?