West Yorkshire Trading Standards Newsletter Scam Alert 17.04.2020

This weekly alert outlines trending fraud patterns during the current COVID-19 pandemic and what we can do to stay protected.

Unfortunately there has been an increase in reports of scams, doorstep Crime and business complaints all relating to the COVID-19 pandemic here in West Yorkshire.

West Yorkshire Trading Standards News Alert issue 3 17.04.2020

Outline of trending scams:

  1. Scam adverts on social media claiming to offer supermarket vouchers to help with food shopping.
  2. Malicious Android app claiming to provide real-time Covid-19 outbreak tracker: Warning, it’s a ransomware called CovidLock!
  3. Bogus texts from Lloyds bank offering mortgage holiday / suspension of credit card interest, leads to link requesting personal account details.
  4. Scam phonecalls claiming to be broadband providers offering faster services during the lockdown.

Please note: At present there is NO vaccine for the COVID-19 virus.

Always remember:

  • If you feel pressured, ask them to leave.
  • Friends and family are best to ask.
  • Don’t make any snap decisions.
  • Do the checks and use a number you have found yourself, not the one the visitor provides.

Last week, (06/04/2020 – 12/04/2020) WYTS had 103 COVID-19 complaints and queries. A further 47 intelligence reports were submitted through our intelligence database relating to COVID-19 during this time period.

 

Stay Alert, Stay Safe

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