COVID-19 - Scams

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For the latest COVID-19 information, please refer to either the GOV.UK or NHS websites.

Unfortunately there has been a rise in the number of coronavirus (COVID-19) scams which are targeting the most vulnerable. These scams will try to con you out of money and may be received by post, email, telephone, text or face to face.

Be careful when clicking on links in emails and texts and if you're not sure check with family and friends.

For the latest advice on coronavirus (COVID 19) scams and fraud protection, visit GOV.UK, Citizens Advice or the Trading Standards websites.

Things such as Facebook Community Groups, WhatsApp Groups and the Nextdoor social network that send neighbourhood alerts can be great ways of staying in touch with those around you, however it can be difficult to know who to trust.

Please be aware that not everyone out there is trustworthy and some people will take advantage of this unusual situation our society is facing.

Here are just some of the scams we are aware of, but please note that criminals come in all shapes and sizes and can contact you at the door, by phone, post or online.

Be aware of people offering miracle cures or vaccines for coronavirus - there is no specific treatment for coronavirus (COVID-19). Treatment aims to relieve the symptoms until you recover.
Home cleaning services
People impersonating healthcare workers, claiming to be offering 'home-testing' for coronavirus - this is a scam and these kits are not currently available to buy.
Emails saying that you can get a refund on taxes, utilities or similar are usually bogus and they are just after your personal and bank details.
There are lots of fake products available to buy online that say they can protect you or cure coronavirus. These will not help and are designed to take your money.
There are new mobile phone applications that claim to give you updates on the virus but instead, they lock your phone and demand a ransom.
Your bank or the police will never ask for your bank details over the phone.
People offering to do your shopping or collecting medication and asking for money upfront and then disappearing.

Tips to avoid being scammed

Be cautious and listen to your instincts. Don't be afraid to hang up, bin it, delete it or shut the door.
Take your time; don't be rushed.
If someone claims to represent a charity, ask them for ID. Be suspicious of requests for money up front. If someone attempts you into accepting a service they are unlikely to be genuine. Check with family and friends before accepting offers of helps if you are unsure.
If you are online, be aware of fake news and use trusted sources such as .gov.uk or NHS.uk websites. Make sure you type the addresses in and don't click on links in emails.
Only purchase goods from legitimate retailers and take a moment to think before parting with money or personal information.
Know who you're dealing with - if you need help, talk to someone you know or get in touch with Plymouth City Council on the numbers below.
Protect your financial information, especially from people you don't know. Never give your bank card or PIN to a stranger.

Who to contact for more information

If you think you've been scammed, report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 and if you need advice, call the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133. If you are in immediate danger, contact the police on 999.
Contact your bank if you think you have been scammed.
If you believe to have been scammed by a local help group or if you have any other concerns, then please contact Plymouth City Council on 01752 668000

How to submit an organisation or community group to this website

If you are an organisation or community group and can help people during the COVID-19 pandemic, please complete our online form and we will add you to this directory.

Submit your offer of help and support

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This page was last updated on 11 July 2023.