Advice about Coronavirus scam calls and texts
With Coronavirus being one of the most talked-about subjects in history, it's no surprise that fraudsters are doing everything they can to exploit the situation.
Scammers are making calls and sending text messages claiming to be from the NHS, a GP surgery, the World Health Organisation and Government departments.
We urge everyone to be extremely cautious when these types of calls and text messages, and remember, that neither the NHS nor any other official body will ever ask you for payment or your bank details.
Scam calls
For calls, either a recorded message or caller will claim to be contacting you about Covid-19 and offer you a test, treatment or even a cure, or want to discuss your medical needs. These calls will encourage you to speak to an operator or press a button on your handset for more information.
- If you speak to an operator, you could be at risk of giving them your personal information or financial details, resulting in financial loss or identity theft.
- If you press a button on your telephone, you may be connected to a high cost premium-rate number, which would result in high call costs.
Scam text messages
Various text-based phishing scams are being reported at the moment. These scam text messages often mimic an official NHS or Government message and include a link to a fake website which will ask you for your personal details.
- Under no circumstances should you click on a link in a text message.
- Always check the website address of any links your receive in a text message, you will often see that the address is to a fake website.
More information about Coranavirus scam calls and texts
Ofcom has published detailed advice for consumers who receive calls and scams about Coronavirus.
What can you do?
If you receive a call or a text message that you suspect might be a scam, hang up the call or delete the text message and report it to Action Fraud.
Action Fraud is the reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Reports of fraud and any other financial crime in Scotland should be reported to the Police via 101.
Ofcom also has some useful information and guides that could also help;
