Be Alert . . . For Coronavirus Crime

corona virus imageJust a timely reminder to everyone that unfortunately “in times of crisis, crime increases”. There are numerous scams doing the rounds at the moment, with criminals trying to prey on vulnerability and fear of the virus.

With the launch of the Government’s Track and Trace scheme recently, it seems that the crooks have gone into overdrive, with numerous reports of bogus phone calls purporting to be from the NHS Track and Trace Service. However, all those calls have one thing in common – they ask you for a payment for a Covid-19 test.  An NHS test is free, so if you’re asked for a payment, typically £50 for a testing kit, then it’s a scam and you should hang up.

There are plenty of other scams too, so before you give anyone your payment details ask yourself one simple question “is this really genuine?” If you have the slightest doubt, ask the caller to ring back later, after you’ve had a chance to check them out. If you’re pressured to make a decision there and then, it’s a scam.

You can find lots of information about  current scams on the Norfolk Trading Standards website. It’s well worth a look.

Be on your guard. Stay safe, protect yourself and protect others and keep washing those hands. Let’s keep Dersingham fit and healthy!