Criminals will likely use the publicity around Coronavirus as a chance to pose as a genuine organisation, including banks, police officers, government, the World Health Organisation or other health service providers. Often the criminal will pretend to offer help and guidance, or claim they are dealing with an issue as a result.

Fraudulent emails, phone calls, text messages or social media posts often claim to be able to help customers by providing a safe haven for your money, investment opportunities or even provide medical guidance.

Using Coronavirus as a cover story, the criminal will then attempt to get recipients to disclose personal or financial information or click on links that may contain malware which they will then use for their own fraudulent purposes.

Your bank or the police will NEVER ask you to transfer money or move it to a safe account.

Consumers are urged to:

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.