Protect yourself from scammers

Trading Standards are warning residents to be vigilant and protect themselves from scammers.

There are cases reported throughout the country where vulnerable people have been tricked into handing over bank cards, money and other personal details in the belief that they will be used only to obtain essential items like food and medication. Sadly, this hasn't always been the case.

Our advice is to never provide bank details or bank cards to anyone and seek any help you need from family and friends wherever you can. If this isn't an option for you and you are self-isolating, help is available from the council's freephone number for support 0800 234 6084.

If you think you may have been the victim of a scam like this, report it to us through the consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.

Scammers often make contact by email, phone calls, text messages, social media posts or calling at your door.

If in doubt, apply the 'scam' test:

s - seems too good to be true

c - contacted out of the blue

a - asked for personal details

m - money is requested

https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-consumer-advice-about-scams