Wrexham Trading Standards has been made aware of scam text messages relating to Covid-19 grants. The scam messages, which claim to be from the government, advise that you are eligible for a grant and ask you to follow a link to claim a specific amount of money.
This is a scam!
Please be aware that this is a scam and don’t click on this link.
The text message we’ve seen reads: ‘GOVUK: Due to the new lockdown circumstances you are available for a COVID-19 grant of £277.59.’ The message then asks you to click a link to claim this money.
The amount of money you are offered may differ from the amount we’ve seen, but it’s likely to be in the hundreds of pounds.
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“Attempt to steal your personal information”
Cllr Hugh Jones, Lead Member for Communities, Partnerships, Public Protection and Community Safety, said: “Unfortunately we are seeing a lot of scams which are looking to profit from the pandemic, and this is the latest one we’ve come across. We know anything telling you that you are due a large sum of money can be tempting to follow up, but this is just another attempt to steal your personal information.
“Don’t click on any links, never give any details – such as passwords or bank account numbers – and remember that you’re within your rights to ignore any suspicious messages. Always take the time you need to identify whether something could be a scam first. If you’re not sure, you can always contact the company or organisation directly.”
Some advice
It’s really important to follow these three steps when deciding whether it’s safe to part with your money or personal information:
STOP – Taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe.
CHALLENGE – Could it be fake? It’s OK to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.
PROTECT – Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen for a scam and report it to Action Fraud.
Report a cyber crime
If you think you may have been the victim of fraud or cyber-crime, you should report this to Action Fraud via their website or by calling 0300 123 2040.
Action Fraud is the UK’s National Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting Centre.
General scam advice
Consumer advice can be obtained from the Citizens Advice Consumer Service. They can be contacted on 0808 223 1144 (Welsh) or 0808 223 1133 (English).
Scam Covid-19 vaccine email doing the rounds warn Wrexham Trading Standards
Stay safe and please stay scam aware.
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