Three Towns Forum
The Local => Covid-19 => Topic started by: Ian on March 25, 2020, 11:37:02 am
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Scams circulating targeted at fears over Covid
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@AgeCymru
During this worrying time, it's shocking to see the number of scams circulating. Be sceptical if you receive an email, text or WhatsApp message about the Coronavirus, and never click on any attachments or links. #Scams
🛑 Read our avoiding scams guide - https://bit.ly/ACAvoidingScams (https://bit.ly/ACAvoidingScams)
Excellent advice
What this guide is about
What is a scam? 5
Types of scam
Overview 6
Doorstep scams 8
Mail scams 12
Phone scams 14
Email and online scams 17
Relationship scams 20
Identity theft 22
Investment and pension scams 25
Avoiding and dealing with scams
Checking credentials 27
Reporting a scam 29
Top tips to remember 30
Useful organisations 31
.
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Police are warning of a text message and email scam revolving around the coronavirus.
It sees people receive a text message or email from scammers saying that they have left their house three times on the same day, and are in breach of Government guidlines.
The message states that a fine notice of £30 will issued to them in the post.
North Wales Police is warning people that this is fake and is a scam, and that if anyone receives a message of this nature to report it to Action Fraud.
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BBC Trending
Coronavirus: Here's how you can stop bad information from going viral
27 March 2020
Coronavirus misinformation is flooding the internet and experts are calling on the public to practise "information hygiene". What can you do to stop the spread of bad information?
1. Stop and think
You want to help family and friends and keep them in the loop. So when you receive fresh advice - whether by email, WhatsApp, Facebook or Twitter - you might quickly forward it on to them.
But experts say the number one thing you can do to halt misinformation is to simply stop and think.
If you have any doubts, pause, and check it out further. cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/blogs-trending-51967889 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/blogs-trending-51967889)
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With a record number of people now working from home, criminals will look for every opportunity to exploit cyber security vulnerabilities in an attempt to steal valuable information.
While working from home is not new to many of us, but the coronavirus (COVID 19) means organisations are using home working on a greater scale, and for longer periods. The below resources have been published by the National Cyber Security Centre and are designed to help organisations support their staff working from home. It also provides advice on spotting COVID-19 scam emails:
NWPolice
❗ Coronavirus-related scams are on this rise.
List of reported scams
Here’s where you can get the latest information on how to protect yourself: https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/covid19 (https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/covid19)
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Had this sent to me yesterday, so true and realistic.
Here are the official coronavirus guidelines.
! Basically you cant Leave the house for any reason, But if you have to then you can
2 Masks are useless, but maybe you have to wear one,it can save you,it is useless. but maybe it is mandatory as well.
3 Stores are closed, except those that are open.
4 You should not go to hospital unless you have yo go there. Same applies to doctors, you should only go there in case of emergency, provided you are not to sick.
5 The virus is deadly but still not too scary, except that sometimes it actually leads to a global disaster.
6 Gloves won't help but they can still help
7 Every one needs to stay home , but it's important to GO OUT.
8 There is no shortage of groceries in the supermarket but there are many things missing when you go there in the evening but not in the morning Sometimes
9 The virus as no effect on children except those it effects
10 Animals are not affected but there is a cat that tested positive in Belgium in February when no one had been tested, plus a few tigers here and there
11 You will have many symptoms when you are sick but you can also get sick without getting symptoms, have symptoms without being sick,or be contagious without having symptoms. Oh my.
12 In order not to get sick, you have to eat well and exercise but eat whatever you have on hand and its better not to go out well,but no
13 it's better to get some fresh air but you get looked at very wrong when you get some fresh air and most importantly, you don;t go to parks or walk' don't sit down, except that you can do that if you are old but not for too long or if you are pregnant(but not to old)
14 You can't go to retirement homes, but you have to take care of the elderly and bring food and medication
15 If you are sick you cant go out but you can go to the Pharmacy
16 You can get food from a restaurant delivered to the house, which may have been prepared by people who didn't wear a mask or gloves but you have to have your groceries decontaminated outside for three hours Pizza too?
17 Every disturbing article or disturbing interview starts with "I don;t want to trigger panic, but..."
18 You can't see your o[older mother or Grandmother but you can get a taxi and meet an older taxi driver
19 You can walk around with a friend but not with your family if they don't live under the same roof
20 you are safe if you maintain the appropriate distance but you cant go out with friends or strangers at the safe social distance
21 The virus remains active on different surfaces for two hours,no,four,no,six,no,we didn't say hours'maybe days?but it takes a damp environment. Oh no not necessarily/
22 The virus stays in the air-well no,or yes,maybe, Especially in a closed room,in one hour a sick person can infect ten,so if it falls,all our children were already infected at school before it was closed but remember if you stay at the recommended social distance,however in certain circumstances you should maintain a greater distance,which, studies show, the virus can travel further, maybe.
23 We count the number of deaths but we don't know how many people are infected as we have only tested so far those who were "almost dead" to find out if
that's what they died of ...
24 we have no treatment, except that there may be one that apparently is not dangerous unless you take too much (which is the case with all medications).
25 We should stay locked Message ended,hope it helps.
up until the virus disappears but it will only disappear if we achieve collective immunity, so when it circulates...but we must no longer be locked up for that.
Message ended, hope it helps.
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When I have some time I'll go through that post and dissect it. It's typical FB misinformation, and it can do a lot of harm.
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First off, I'm not slating Snowcap for posting this. I fully appreciate Snowcap is only re-posting what he's been sent but if this is out in the wild then I think it ought to be dissected.
I started to go through the post and discovered that only two statements in it are actually true. Several points are repeated several times, presumably to make the list longer: 1, 7, 13, 19, 20 and 25 are all garbled versions of the same point, for example, the rules about going out.
But more worryingly, it could be taken seriously by those without access to accurate information. It is, in fact spreading misinformation.
One nasty example of this is No 9:
9 The virus as no effect on children except those it effects
It's always been known it can affect young children. A five year old in the UK died from it last week. Putting this out in public could be both hurtful and insensitive for those with young children who might be affected.
Most of the post is sub-par gibberish, and the only reason I'm even taking time to examine it is because the world is currently facing the most dangerous pathogen within living memory and garbage like this does nothing to help.
Buried in the rubbish, however, are a couple of salient points:
24 we have no treatment, except that there may be one that apparently is not dangerous unless you take too much (which is the case with all medications).
The first phrase is correct in that there is no cure. There are treatments, but we cannot and never have been able to cure illnesses caused by viruses. That's why there's no cure for the common cold.
We came back from Paris last year and we both caught a nasty viral thing, which gave me a bout of a pneumonia-like illness. Fortunately, it was bacterial Pneumonia, so it was sorted with antibiotics. Covid_19 causes viral pneumonia.
Another aspect of the post which is accurate is this:
23 We count the number of deaths but we don't know how many people are infected as we have only tested so far those who were "almost dead" to find out if that's what they died of
We should be testing far, far more people, because that's the only effective way to limit the spread.
It concerns me that restaurants and cafes are being allowed to do 'take out' services. I suspect that's a real risk, since we know people can be symptomless and yet be able to spread the illness.
The only 'cure' for Covid-19 is our own immune system. It's that which can kill us by overreacting and creating a cytokine storm, an immune response to a pathogen which, in this case, can deluge the lungs with dead tissue, stopping us breathing.
This is what is making this so deadly. The answer is to stay as healthy as possible by keeping our immune systems in top condition. All the evidence points to exercise, fresh air, building muscle mass and laughter as being the four key aspects, plus eating a decent diet. Steve's jokes are proving vital part of the laughter element, but walking and doing strength exercises is also extremely good for you.
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Snowcap's post wasn't a scam, it was a joke explanation of the nonsense that some of the "rules" actually are.
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I realised that. The problem is I doubt many would find it funny, and it could do some real damage.
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Just to clarify why i put it on, it was sent as a text among a lot of jokes and funny video's and i couldn't read it to my wife for laughing, i must admit i split my sides and never took into account some might take it serious. I apologise whole heartedly if it as upset anyone but that was not my intention. Once again sorry.
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Not your fault, Snowcap; the reason I reacted as I did with it is because we're currently seeing a lot of folk who swallow this sort of thing completely and get very stressed out about it. I'm dealing with some people who believe there's no pandemic at all and others who believe it's a plot by the Democrats to stop Trump being re-elected. You'd probably be surprised at the sheer volume of conspiracy theories that some folk seem to swallow.
In here none of our regular contributors would give it credence; but we're being read by around twenty times as many folk who never post.
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I've had e-mails with all types of conspiracy theories but just delete them as there is no evidence to support the theory. After this pandemic has ended though there must be some type of World Government investigation into the cause of the pandemic and then be prepared for any eventuality in the future
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By coincidence ............
BBC Trending
Coronavirus: Here's how you can stop bad information from going viral
By Flora Carmichael and Marianna Spring
14 minutes ago
Coronavirus misinformation is flooding the internet.
Meanwhile, experts are calling on the public to practise "information hygiene". So what can you do to stop the spread of bad information online?
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/blogs-trending-52326415 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/blogs-trending-52326415)
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Trading Standards issue warning over PPE cold-callers
Anglesey Council is urging businesses and residents to make sure any purchases are legitimate and safe.
Anyone buying PPE - which includes items such as medical grade facemasks, gloves, aprons and coveralls - should check if any individuals or businesses are legitimate.
PPE destined for any key workers or front line staff must be checked to ensure it complies with the required safety standards.
People should also be alert for any companies selling COVID-19 virus testing kits, as these should not be available to the general public and are only offered by the NHS.
"We are also aware that some PPE products offered for sale with a BSI certification for safety, may not be genuine. It is important to check the authenticity of any BSI certificate and you should visit BSI VerifEye Directory."
Anyone who is approached by a cold-caller offering to sell PPE or virus testing kits and who is unsure or has any concerns, should e-mail tradingstandards@anglesey.gov.uk. ref DP
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Coronavirus fraudsters create fake NHS website to scam people worried about Covid-19
The fake website has been set up to steal personal details from unsuspecting victims
A fake NHS website has been set up by scammers targeting people worried about the coronavirus outbreak.
Callous fraudsters are targeting people who are searching for information online about Covid-19, with personal details being stolen from unassuming victims. Police have warned members of the public to keep an eye out for the scam.
"The website includes harmful links that lure people who are after looking for COVID-19-related health tips.
"Once you click on one of these links, a pop-up box appears asking if you want to save a file called ‘COVID19’.
"If saved, your device is infected with malware which can steal passwords, credit card data, cookies from popular browsers, cryptowallets files and screenshots.
"Please remain vigilant to online fraud, if something doesn’t seem right, ‘Stop. Challenge. Protect’."
REF DP
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Warning over 'free money' scam
Residents and businesses in Carmarthenshire are being warned not to respond to messages from a fake company offering grants of up to £2,000 on Facebook.
Scammers claiming to be from a business called DFID are targeting social media accounts, offering "free money" to help people who are experiencing difficulties as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.
People are asked to give personal details, with some also receiving phone calls from the fake company. ref BBC
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10 lockdown scams you urgently need to be aware of
Scammers are using the Covid-19 outbreak to con people out of cash - here's what you need to look out for.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/10-coronavirus-scams-you-urgently-18171186 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/10-coronavirus-scams-you-urgently-18171186)
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The public have been warned to stay vigilant to criminals selling fake coronavirus-related products.
The Local Government Association said some councils have seen a "significant surge" in reports of scams by those seeking to exploit virus fears.
More than 500,000 sub-standard masks were seized by a London council, while other criminals have attempted to trick people into giving personal details.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-52595925 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-52595925)
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A bit of fun..........
Tiny Tim speaking to a scammer
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KCv_vTIS4ZU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KCv_vTIS4ZU)
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Police have received more than 70 reports of a new fake TV licence scam within a week.
The phishing scam comes in the form of an email mimicking the style of the TV Licensing Company.
The email claims that the recipient's direct debit has failed and they have to pay immediately to avoid prosecution.
Victims are also told that they are eligible for a " Covid-19 personalised offer" of six months off their annual bill.
The scam, which addresses the recipient as 'dear customer', says: "Oops! Something went wrong with your payment", and warns that without payment by a specific date the licence will be cancelled.
Fraudsters then direct their victim towards a link to claim their offer and pay their outstanding balance.
The link directs them to a genuine-looking website that is designed to steal your personal and financial information.
How do I know if its a scam?
Scammers will try to disguise their email address because they don't have a genuine TV Licensing one.
Official TV Licensing emails will always be from donotreply@tvlicensing.co.uk or donotreply@spp.tvlicensing.co.uk.
Suspicious emails will often be replicas of real correspondence, though amended slightly.
An Action Fraud spokesperson said: "Always be suspicious of unsolicited emails that are supposedly from your bank or another trusted organisation because the address can easily be faked.
"Never automatically click on any links they contain. Instead, perform some simple checks for telltale signs that an email might be a scam such as if it includes spelling or grammatical errors, or if it addresses you as 'customer' rather than using your proper name.
"If the email is implying a sense of urgency, asking you to act immediately, take a moment to pause and consider your actions.
"If you are unsure about the origin of an unexpected email, contact the organisation on a known phone number or via their official website instead." ref DP
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North Wales Police are warning people not to be taken in by a scam offer of free pizza.
A text message promotion currently circulating tells people they could be in for a free meal from Domino's.
It claims: "Domino's is giving away two free large pizzas per family to everyone this week to support the nation during Corona Pandemic."
But North Wales Community Safety Central warned on their Facebook page: "If you receive a text message like this, claiming Domino's are giving away free pizza, please don't click the link. It's a scam." ref DP
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A WARNING to beware of cold callers offering protection from Coronavirus has been issued.
Conwy County Borough Council Trading Standards are warning residents to watch out for cold callers visiting houses and offering to do jobs.
Elderly and vulnerable residents have had people knocking on their doors offering to carry out gardening work and clean roofs for a cost of between £700 and £1,500.
The callers have told householders that the chemicals used to clean the roofs could also help prevent Covid-19.
Fortunately, on all occasions reported to Conwy’s Trading Standards officers, neighbours have stepped in, and been able to prevent anyone from falling victim to these uncaring scammers.
The trading standards team urges all residents to be vigilant when receiving unexpected knocks at the door, and to watch out for their neighbours when what could be unscrupulous traders are calling offering to carry out emergency repairs.
Cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18481093.warning-elderly-vulnerable-people-targeted-cold-callers-conwy-offering-protection-coronavirus/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18481093.warning-elderly-vulnerable-people-targeted-cold-callers-conwy-offering-protection-coronavirus/)
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People are being warned to be on their guard against scammers posing as NHS contact tracers.
Local councils in England and Wales have issued alerts following reports of bogus calls and messages asking for money to cover the cost of coronavirus testing kits.
Official tracers will never ask for payment of any kind or bank details.
The test and trace system is part of the government's efforts to reduce the spread of coronavirus, with contact tracers getting in touch with those who have had recent close contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid-19.
However, a number of fraudsters are using this to their advantage and posing as contact tracers to deceive people into parting with money or personal details. ref BBC
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A North Wales GP has issued a warning about a scam involving the flu vaccination programme. ref DP
Dr Dylan Parry has taken to Twitter to warn that criminals are trying to scam money from unsuspecting victims as the winter programme approaches.
In a post, he said: "If you are contacted by an individual offering to add you to a flu vaccination priority list, in return for a fee, it's a scam.
"Please terminate the phone call and don't provide any of your details.
"It's happening in our area."
The vaccination programme has taken on even more importance this year as medics fear a second wave of coronavirus combined with a bad flu season could wreak havoc on the NHS.
The Welsh Government said they would be launching a campaign in the hope that as many people as possible get the vaccine this year to assist the NHS.
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The public are being warned of a scam that is exploiting the coronavirus contract tracing system.
It was revealed as early as May that fraudsters were using the cover of the government's Test and Trace platform in a bid to targeting vulnerable people.
The system - also known as Test, Trace and Protect - was also the subject of a warning by Martin Lewis.
And now the official Test and Trace app has finally launched in Wales and England, it seems that the scammers have returned.
That's according to several posts on social media recently which recommend remaining vigilant.
These have been shared by a number police forces in the UK and explain what the scam involves.
The posts state that fraudsters have contacted people by phone pretending to be contact tracers.
They inform the victim that they're a "contact" and must self-isolate for 7 days as a result of this.
The potential victim is then told that they must take a coronavirus test which will cost them £50.
The call recipient is subsequently asked for a mailing address as well as details of a payment card.
The fraudsters then exert pressure by stating that there are "penalties for not complying".
Genuine contact tracers would not ask for card details or any other sensitive personal information.
A spokesperson however reminded that the app only launched last week so data isn't available yet.
Action Fraud is aware that fraudsters may be "taking advantage" of "the NHS Test and Trace system".
This includes noting that contact tracers call from 0300 013 5000, in England, and 02921 961133, in Wales.
Local contact tracers may also call from a local council number, though this varies per circumstance.
Anyone who doesn't wish to talk over the phone can actually request them to send an email or test instead.
In this scenario, they'll be asked to sign into the contact tracing website with a unique reference number.
Action Fraud has further stated that contact tracers will never:
ask you to dial a premium rate number (e.g. those starting 09 or 087)
ask you to make any form of payment or purchase a product
ask for any details about your bank account
ask for your social media identities or login details
ask you for any passwords or PINs
ask you to set up any passwords or PINs over the phone
ask you to download any software or ask you to hand over control of your device
ask you to access any website that does not belong to the government or NHS
If you think you've been a victim of fraud, you should report it to Action Fraud.
This can be done on its official website or by calling 0300 123 2040 - and by 101 in Scotland.
Find out more about contact tracing through the UK Government and the Welsh Government.
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Royal Mail scam could steal your bank details this Christmas
"The scam involves recipients receiving either a text message or an email that appears to be from Royal Mail.
The message states that there was an attempt to deliver a parcel made, and you are instructed to click a link in order to reschedule the delivery.
The link will then direct you to an authentic looking website, which asks for your full name, address, date of birth and mobile number.
Once you’ve completed this form, you’ll then be prompted to enter your card details, which the scammers can use to access your bank account."
more https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18920607.royal-mail-scam-steal-bank-details-christmas/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18920607.royal-mail-scam-steal-bank-details-christmas/)
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Police are warning people to be vigilant with news of a coronavirus vaccine scam by fraudsters.
Elderly people are being targeted according to reports received by North Wales Police.
The service tweeted on Tuesday morning: "We're aware of a scam involving fraudsters contacting elderly victims, telling them someone is coming to their home to give a COVID-19 vaccination.
"The NHS will contact you when it is your turn, you won't be asked for payment and the vaccine won't be administered at home."
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North Wales Police warn of scam targeting people desperate for Covid vaccine
Criminals are laying traps for those who are waiting for the phone to ring with a vaccination offer
Police in North Wales are warning of a new scam that takes advantage of people’s anxiety to get their Covid-19 jabs.
Trading Standards officers across the UK say people are being contacted out of the blue with offers of a coronavirus vaccination.
The message is delivered by text or via a voice recording on the telephone.
Recipients are asked to respond by clicking a link in the text message – or by pressing 1 when receiving the call.
Doing so is likely to result in a large phone bill.
In other cases, callers are offering the vaccine for a fee or asking for bank details.
What may make the scam so effective is government messaging over the need for people to await their vaccination booking by telephone.
North Wales Police urged people – particularly the elderly – to be alert for the ruse.
more https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-police-warn-scam-19536092 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-police-warn-scam-19536092)
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Another Police warning..............
Police issue warning over fake NHS coronavirus vaccine scam texts
Messages telling people to add in their bank details before applying for the jab have been circulating
North Wales Police have issued a warning after reports that people have been receiving fake text messages telling them they're eligible to apply for a Covid-19 vaccine.
The message is designed to look as if it comes from the NHS and reads: "We have identified that you are eligible to apply for your vaccine.
"For more information and to apply follow here: uk-application-form.com"
The link then takes you to what appears to be an NHS page where it offers you the options to put in your sort code, account number and long card number.
It states that the information is used to verify your billing address but says that no payments are taken from the card.
North Wales Police put out a warning on their social media pages warning people not to put in any details if they receive the message because it is a scam.
If anyone does receive the text message they are asked to send it on to 7726 free of charge. ref DP
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I got an automated phone call from Amazon Prime the other day but as soon as the voice mentioned an amount of money I just hung up.
I don't know what the catch or scam was but in any case I never use Amazon Prime
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It's been doing the rounds (https://conversation.which.co.uk/money/amazon-prime-renewal-scam-phone-call/) for some time, Hugo.
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Thanks Ian, it's good to know what that call was all about. $good$
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RESIDENTS are being warned about scammers pretending to be part of the NHS vaccine rollout.
North Wales Police's Community Safety Central team tweeted that a number of email scams are "doing the rounds" that claim the recipient has been selected for a vaccine.
Officers shared an image of one of the scams, which used the NHS logo, house style and listed public health information before asking for personal data.
"Please share to make more people aware," ref Pioneer
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North Wales health board outlines six ways to easily recognise a Covid vaccine scam
People are urged to be aware of fraudsters when it comes to receiving a Covid vaccine invitation
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-health-board-outlines-19841823 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-health-board-outlines-19841823)
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Had this Email this morning looks authentic ha ha
The COVID-19 travel certificate has been created in a bid to restore the freedom of travel,
which has been put at a halt for over a year now, since the pandemic erupted all over the block.
Through the certificate, the Commission intends to remove travel restrictions as entry bans, quarantine obligation, and testing.
Those holding such a document will be able to travel throughout Europe without the need to quarantine or test for COVID-19
Please confirm or reject your invitation by selecting an option below:
>> N H S - ACCEPT Invitation ↣
>> N H S - Decline Invitation ↣
The Passport will be issued to all those who have been fully vaccinated against the Coronavirus, with one of the four vaccines approved by the National Medicine Agency, which are:
AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson)
The certificate will prove that its holder has been vaccinated while also containing additional information on the vaccine, as when the doses were administered, who is the manufacturer, etc.
Who can use this service
You can only use this service if you have received an email/SMS regarding this invitation. You can not use this service for anyone other than yourself.
You are also free to reject this invitation, your appointment will be issued to the next person in line in that case.
You are required to reply to this invitation within 12 hours of this notification.
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For most of us, being notified that you were to receive your Covid-19 vaccination was a moment of relief.
But for some, it was the start of an ordeal that has cost people all over the UK more than a third of a million pounds.
Sioban Moore, from North Yorkshire, escaped disaster by a whisker after receiving an email, supposedly from the NHS, inviting her to get her jab.
A retired children's social worker, Sioban has been helping to drive people to hospital appointments and collect shopping for people during the pandemic.
Because of her volunteering work with vulnerable people, the email was just what she had been waiting for.
"I was very keen to accept the invitation," she told BBC Radio 4's You and Yours.
The message told her that unless she responded within 12 hours, the opportunity would go as the offer would be given to someone else. Eager to receive her vaccination, Sioban followed the link and accepted the invitation.
Personal details were then requested: date of birth, phone number, email address - and her bank details.
'The penny dropped'
Sioban found the reasoning for this request for her bank details strange, but believable, as the scammers said this was to cover any costs that might be incurred by the vaccine process.
"I got up and went to my purse and got out my credit card. I looked at it and the penny dropped massively," she said.
Luckily, Sioban realised it was a fraud just in time and didn't lose any money. Many people have not been so lucky and have been taken in by these scams.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-58029113 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-58029113)
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People across the UK are being issued an urgent warning over a scam targeting their credit card details.
A new text message scam targeting unsuspecting victims sees fraudsters pose as the NHS asking for payment in order to create a Covid pass, experts have warned.
Cybersecurity firm Malwarebytes has published details of the scam and urged the public to be wary of text messages containing links and asking for payment details.
Throughout the coronavirus pandemic opportunistic criminals have taking advantage of the situation to trick people in handing over personal details.
Scammers will often make contact via email, phone calls and texts using sophisticated methods to exploit people during this unprecedented time.
NHS Covid scam warning
This latest scam involves a text message containing a link to a website mimicking the official NHS website, which asks users to input the exact name registered with their GP surgery, as well as their home address.
cont
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A scam text message is using the NHS Covid-19 pass scheme to steal people’s personal information.
Trading Standards officers across Britain are warning people to be on the lookout for the latest Covid-19 themed scam after receiving a number of reports.
The message, which claims to be an official communication from the National Health Service (NHS), reads: "You are eligible to apply for a Covid Pass proving you have been vaccinated against Covid-19."
The message then links to a website made to look like a real NHS platform that asks the recipient to provide personal details, supposedly for registration purposes, but which could be used to undertake identity fraud.
This text scam is similar to an email-based scam witnessed in July, which implored members of the public to get their health passports before they went on holiday. That scam also directed recipients to a phony website that took personal details which could be used to commit fraud.
Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) Chief Executive John Herriman said: "Since the first COVID-19 lockdown in March 2020, CTSI has witnessed countless scams themed around the pandemic.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/warning-issued-over-nhs-covid-21644206 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/warning-issued-over-nhs-covid-21644206)
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North Wales Community Alert
We are aware of a recent scam that attempted to lure the public into paying fake fines. The scammers pretended to be Police and claimed to be prosecuting individuals for failing to wear masks in public. To avoid prosecution, they advise that an immediate £100 card payment should be made on their website.
Be careful with any unexpected requests for payment. Take steps to verify their validity before taking any action or clicking on any links.
Rydym yn ymwybodol o sgam diweddar a geisiodd dwyllo’r cyhoedd i dalu dirwyon ffug. Roedd y sgamwyr yn esgus bod yn Heddlu ac yn honni eu bod yn erlyn unigolion am fethu â gwisgo masgiau mewn mannau cyhoeddus. Er mwyn osgoi erlyniad roeddent yn honni y dylid talu £100 ar unwaith ar eu gwefan.
Byddwch yn ofalus gydag unrhyw geisiadau annisgwyl am daliadau. Cymerwch gamau i wirio dilysrwydd unrhyw gais cyn gweithredu neu glicio ar unrhyw ddolenni.
Message Sent By
Dewi Owen
(North Wales Police, Cyber Crime Officer, North Wales)
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A scam email relating to ordering a PCR test for the Omicron variant of Covid has been reported circulating around in the UK.
Several Trading Standards groups have sent out warnings telling people not to click the link on such emails, which goes to a fake NHS website.
Reportedly the emails have been asking individuals for payment for ordering PCR tests.
The NHS wouldn't ask for payment, as the vaccine is free, and should not ask for your bank details in such a circumstance.
"Beware of fake NHS emails asking you to order a Omicron PCR test. Link goes to a fake NHS website.
"The NHS will: NEVER ask for payment - the vaccine is free NEVER ask for your bank details."
It encouraged individuals to forward scam emails received to Report@Phishing.Gov.UK.
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Cruel Christmas scammers are trying to charge for arranging bogus Covid booster jabs in North Wales, a police chief has said.
People are being targeted with fake messages with a link to “register” for a third vaccination.
The link takes people to a phoney website that appears to look like a genuine NHS site. Users ared asked for their banking details.
The warning came from Wayne Jones, the deputy police and crime commissioner (PCC) for North Wales, who has himself been targeted by the scammers.
He stressed the NHS does not charge for Covid-related services – and that texts or emails with links should not be opened.
“One of the new tricks is pretend to offer an appointment for a booster jab or PCR test,” he said.
“I’ve seen it myself where I have seen a link to go to what looks like an NHS website to book your jab.
“It looks legitimate but it’s not. Never click on any links you are sent.”
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/police-boss-issues-covid-booster-22421197?IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/police-boss-issues-covid-booster-22421197?IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4)
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POLICE are warning North Wales residents of scam NHS Covid Pass text messages currently circulating in the area.
If you want to attend certain venues and events in Wales, then you must now show your NHS Covid Pass to prove that you are either fully vaccinated or have tested negative for the virus.
This is in line with the current Welsh Government guideline surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic.
However, crafty cyber criminals are aiming to taking advantage of this and are sending out 'phishing' text messages in order to pounce upon people's fears.
North Wales Police Cyber Crime spokesperson said: “We are still getting lots of reports of people in North Wales receiving this type of Covid scam message.
“Unfortunately we’re also getting reports of people clicking on the links and having their personal information and/or money stolen.
“Criminals can spoof the number or sender ID to make it look as if it’s been sent by the NHS.
“Also the scammers try to make people worry or panic by suggesting that they’ll be fined if they don’t apply. Please take the time to warn all your friends and family about these type of messages.”
If you receive a call and suspect it to be fraudulent, hang up. If you are suspicious about an email, forward it to report@phishing.gov.uk. If you are suspicious about a text message, forward it to the number 7726, which is free-of-charge.
If you believe you are the victim of a fraud, you can report this to Action Fraud as soon as possible by visiting actionfraud.police.uk or calling 0300 123 2040.
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Criminals are using the NHS Covid Pass as a way to target the public by convincing them to hand over money, financial details and personal information.
There have been reports of people in North Wales being sent messages claiming to be from the NHS, telling victims to click a link to access their Covid pass.
One North Wales Live reader received two such emails earlier this week.
He said: "The messages look convincing enough and appear to come from the NHS itself. But I was suspicious because the Covid Pass I obtained from the NHS was organised through a different email address.
"Looking more closely I saw the email was sent from an address that ended in 'support-nhs-service.com' while the proper address is 'gov.wales/get-your-nhs-covid-pass'
"Had I clicked on the links I would have got through to another private address and both were different."
The scam emails are the latest attempt by criminals to obtain people's personal details under the guise of the Covid-19 pandemic. Scam text messages and phone calls have also been reported.
An Action Fraud spokesperson said the NHS Covid Pass is free and available through the official NHS app (which should only be downloaded through your usual app store), the NHS website, or by calling 119.
If readers believe they have been contacted about a fraudulent Covid pass the Action Fraud advice is to follow these three steps:
If you’ve received a phone call, hang up.
If you’ve received an email, forward it to report@phishing.gov.uk.
If you’ve received a text message, forward it to 7726.
ref https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/nhs-covid-pass-scam-everyone-22876668 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/nhs-covid-pass-scam-everyone-22876668)
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Beware of scam texts doing the rounds purporting to be from the NHS.
The link at first glance looks convincing, but in actual fact leads to a phishing website that will steal your personal and financial information.
Please be very careful before clicking on any links.
#NWPCyberSafe
Message Sent By
Dewi Owen
(North Wales Police, Cyber Crime Officer, North Wales)
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My better half has just received a scam text from a mobile no 07759129422 which reads as follows;
"NHS: You've been near someone with the Omicron Variant. Apply for a Test Kit today:
https://urgent-test-kit.com".
Like the use of capitals and colons!
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A scam warning has been issued across the UK as “thousands” of Covid related text scams continue to be circulated every single day.
Compared to the first week of January 2022, the first week of February has seen an 290% increase in Omicron-related smishing lures, according to cybersecurity researchers at Proofpoint.
Scammers are pretending to be NHS Track and Trace telling them they have been in contact with someone who may have Omicron, and then encourages them to complete an order for a test kit via a malicious website link.
The online ordering process would then capture and steal the personal information including possibly credit card information and/or NHS healthcare ID.
It’s important to remember the NHS and the Government will never ask for personal details.
Advice to avoid NHS Covid scam
Jacinta Tobin, vice president of Cloudmark Operations for Proofpoint, said: “Consumers need to be very sceptical of mobile messages that come from unknown sources. And it’s important to never click on links in text messages, no matter how realistic they look.
“If you want to contact the purported vendor sending you a link, do so directly through their website and always manually enter the web address/URL.
“For offer codes, type them directly into the site as well. It’s also vital that you don’t respond to strange texts or texts from unknown sources. Doing so will often confirm you’re a real person to future scammers.”
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NORTH Wales Police is urging people to vigilant of scams after a person was conned out £55,000.
The force said Covid-related scams are still being commonly reported.
The latest saw the victim receive a text message they thought to be from the NHS stating that they had been exposed to Covid and further advising that they needed to order an urgent PCR test.
The victim believing this to be a genuine message from the NHS, clicked on the link which took them to a website where they ordered a PCR test and paid a small fee which they thought was to cover postage costs.
North Wales Police warns of new scam causing 'fear and anxiety'
A few days later the victim received a call from a person purporting to be from their bank advising that there was a virus on their phone and enquired about their accounts. They instructed the victim to log into their online banking account and to change their password.
The victim soon realised that £55,000 had been taken from their bank account.
In this and similar cases the criminals obtain the victim’s details including name, address, phone number and bank details from the form that the victim fills in on the malicious website where they believe that they are ordering the PCR test from the NHS. They have accessed the malicious website by clicking on the malicious link on the fake NHS e-mail.
North Wales Police said: "Please be careful and also make sure that your family, friends and neighbours know about Covid scams such as this one and the potential consequences of clicking on malicious links in fake scam e-mails."
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Watch out for fake text messages pretending to be from the NHS. Since Jan 1st, 412 victims have reported losses totalling more than £531,000. Please use the following links if you would like to see an example of the fake NHS messages reported to Action Fraud:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/actionfrauduk/status/1498945958427594752?s=20&t=RL99N7i-yXmXcqU2xUbiiw (https://twitter.com/actionfrauduk/status/1498945958427594752?s=20&t=RL99N7i-yXmXcqU2xUbiiw)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/actionfraud/photos/a.411244602226592/7380075412010108/ (https://www.facebook.com/actionfraud/photos/a.411244602226592/7380075412010108/)
What you need to look out for:
Be aware of requests for personal information in messages claiming to be from the NHS.
Be alert to links or attachments in unexpected messages claiming to be from the NHS.
Do not respond to requests for money, bank details or passwords. The NHS will NEVER ask for payment or any financial details.
How to report scam messages:
If you are suspicious about an email, forward it to report@phishing.gov.uk.
If you are suspicious about a text message, forward it to the number 7726 (it’s free of charge).
For information on NHS coronavirus testing, visit: www.nhs.uk (http://www.nhs.uk)
Message Sent By
Action Fraud
(Action Fraud, Administrator, National)
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Criminals are still using COVID testing to target the public with fake text messages.
Remember:
❌The NHS will NEVER ask for payment or any financial details.
Since Jan 1st, 412 victims have reported losses totalling more than £531,000.
✅Report suspicious texts by forwarding to 7726 (It's free).
#NWPCyberSafe
Message Sent By
Dewi Owen
(North Wales Police, Cyber Crime Officer, North Wales)
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The NHS is warning about widespread scam text messages telling recipients they have been in close contact with a Covid case.
"We've seen reports of fake NHS text messages about ordering Omicron Covid-19 test kits," it tweeted.
Close contacts of people who have tested positive are no longer advised to test.
The aim of the messages appears to be harvesting financial and personal information.
Read more https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-61882239
NHS
@NHSuk
⚠️ We've seen reports of fake NHS text messages about ordering Omicron COVID-19 test kits.
We never ask for bank details, so please be aware of suspicious messages.
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Jet2.com issues Covid test scam warning to all UK travellers
Countries that still require PCR tests have gifted an opportunity to scammers
A warning to all customers about what appears to be a series of scams, one of which relates to Covid testing. Some destinations still require travellers from the UK to take PCR or lateral flow tests ahead of and/or after arrival, which has opened a door for potential scams.
These usually have to be paid for separately, with a number of providers offering testing kits. However, Jet2 has said it does not "arrange PCR tests or Fit to Fly documents" and urged passengers: "please do not respond to requests for this".
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/trips-breaks/jet2com-issues-covid-test-scam-24848869