The Department for the Economy’s Trading Standards Service (TSS) is warning people to remain vigilant following a rise in reports of coronavirus-related scams.
Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime has already reported total losses during lockdown amount to over £4.6 million.
With many people continuing to be isolated from family and friends and with their guard potentially lowered they are becoming vulnerable to fraudsters. To help combat scammers TSS, in partnership with local authorities and charities, are distributing ‘Wash your hands of Coronavirus Scams’ leaflets in food parcels throughout Northern Ireland to raise awareness of the types of coronavirus scams being reported.
If you or someone you know has been a targeted by a scam you should report it to Consumerline on 0300 123 62 62 or report it to Action Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040.
For more information visit the Department for the Economy website
