By Coronavirus scam costs victims over £800k
As of February 2020, the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau have identified 21 reports of fraud and scams where Coronavirus was mentioned, and which are reported to have cost victims over £800k.
Of the 21 reports, ten were made by victims who attempted to purchase protective face masks from fraudulent sellers.
One victim reported losing over £15k when they purchased face masks that were never delivered.
Councils have also received multiple reports about Coronavirus-themed phishing emails attempting to trick people into opening malicious attachments or revealing sensitive personal and financial information.
One common tactic used by fraudsters is to contact potential victims via email purporting to be from research organisations affiliated with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organisation.
They claim to be able to provide the recipient with a list of Coronavirus infected people in their area.
To access this information, the victim needs to click on a link, which leads to a malicious website, or is asked to make a payment.
Reporting numbers are expected to rise as the virus continues to spread.
People are advised not to click on the links or attachments in suspicious emails, and never respond to unsolicited messages and calls that ask for your personal or financial details.
When shopping online, especially via an unfamiliar retailer, carry out some research first, and ask a friend or family member for advice before completing the purchase.
If you decide to go ahead with the purchase, use PayPal or a credit card if you have one, as most major credit card providers insure online purchases or have measures to protect consumers.
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