Scammers take advantage of COVID-19

Warwickshire County Council's warning residents that fraudsters are taking advantage of the coronavirus pandemic.

Since February 2020, the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau has identified 21 reports of fraud where the virus was mentioned, with victim losses totalling over £800K. 

Some scam tactics have included:
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o    Sending out coronavirus-themed phishing emails in an attempt to trick people into opening malicious attachments or revealing sensitive personal and financial details. 
o    Impersonating the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organisation (WHO). Fraudsters claim to be able to provide the recipient with a list of coronavirus infected people in their area. In order 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 in Bitcoin. 
o    Selling unapproved and falsely branded products, (for example teas and essential oils), claiming they can treat or prevent the Coronavirus. There are currently no approved vaccines or drugs available to prevent or treat the disease. 
o    Creating malicious web pages with coronavirus based domain names. These encourage Internet users to visit them, putting their computers at risk of viruses. Some are attempting to mimic genuine sources of information. 
o    Cold calling residents offering ‘safe’ investments following falling share prices. 
o    Taking advantage of vulnerable older people who are attempting to self-isolate. This may include offering to fetch shopping or carry out all household chores in return for cash or for divulging bank details. 
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Warwickshire County Councillor Andy Crump, Portfolio Holder for Community Safety said: 
“At this difficult time, look out for your vulnerable friends and family members. Keep in contact with them and abreast of all the latest information and advice about scams and health issues generally and most importantly help ensure they are safe and comfortable.” 
Advice to residents: