West Yorkshire Trading Standards weekly update on COVID-19 related scams. What is happening at the moment in West Yorkshire?
An increase in fraud involving the sale of pets online. Whilst in lockdown, many people have been purchasing pets online. We have had several reports of non delivery and price increases after agreements to buy for both cats and dogs
- Reports of TV licence phishing emails and scam calls. Fraudsters contacting consumers over 75 stating they must now pay a licence fee.
- Reports of fake text messages from fraudsters purporting to be NHS England, the messages urge consumers to self isolate until mid June and to provide them with personal information. Other reports of scam callers (again purporting to be from the NHS) stating they will come and ‘collect’ an older person for COVID-19 testing. Other reports of scam texts about women being overdue cervical screening.
- EasyJet data breach: Phishing emails to be expected as 9 million customer details are stolen. EasyJet have stated”Anybody who has ever purchased an EasyJet flight is advised to be extremely wary when opening emails from now on,”
- Reports of a scam phone call from fraudsters purporting to be from DWP. The phone call stated there was a problem with their national insurance number, personal information was requested so they could ‘update their system’.
- Fake PPE adverts still increasing – be mindful of where you buy these products from, potential suppliers may not be able to demonstrate the products meet safety standards or other claims they make.
- Overall, there’s been a decline in reports of doorstep incidents relating to Covid-19 in West Yorkshire. We do ask that you remain vigilant during this pandemicand look out for others. If you are approached on your doorstep by fraudsters, please report this.
Report scams to Action Fraud: 0300 123 2040
Report complaints to Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline: 0808 223 1133
New mailbox to deal with reports of Covid-19 Scams in West Yorkshire: Covid19.Scams@wyjs.org.uk
