Track and Trace Scam
A phone call has very recently been received by one of our members who has reported this to their local coordinator.
The caller stated they were from the NHS track and trace service and according to their system the member had come into close contact with someone who had tested positive for Covid-19, therefore they needed to self-isolate for 7 days and take a Covid-19 test. (First mistake Isolation is 14 Days)
The member queried who this person was and advised this was confidential, but must take the test in 72 hours. The caller asked for the members address and this was provided and was then asked for a payment card and a one off fee of £500 (Second mistake, they will not ask for payment) as there are penalties for not complying.
Fortunately the member spotted this scam and hung up the phone.
It is important to note:
Contact tracers will never:
• ask you to dial a premium rate number to speak to us (for example, those starting 09 or 087)
• ask you to make any form of payment or purchase a product or any kind
• ask for any details about your bank account
• ask for your social media identities or login details, or those of your contacts
• ask you for any passwords or PINs, or ask you to set up any passwords or PINs over the phone
• disclose any of your personal or medical information to your contacts
• provide medical advice on the treatment of any potential coronavirus symptoms
• ask you to download any software to your PC or ask you to hand over control of your PC, smartphone or tablet to anyone else
• ask you to access any website that does not belong to the government or NHS
Guidance on NHS Track and Trace can be found here
Shopping Scam (Vulnerable & Isolation)
During this challenging period, it is heartening to hear lots of stories of kindness from friends and neighbours caring for one another. This is where many Neighbourhood Watches have excelled in looking after the elderly and vulnerable members of their community – or simply offer to help everyone. This includes phone calls to ensure people are ok, assistance with appointments and the collection of groceries and medications.
We must however remain vigilant and rely upon those we know and trust. I have learnt today of a couple of incidents where callers have arrived on doorways offering to do shopping, claiming to be good Samaritans. They have taken money and a shopping list but never returned.
Unfortunately there are some people who will always take advantage of any crisis to steal from those in need.
Please do not fall foul to this and only rely upon people you know or trust to help you.
Somerset: Covid-19 Scam Email
Please be aware of a new scam email advising that you are entitled to a tax refund (rebate) of £128.34. The email states that this is a precautionary measure in cooperation with National Insurance and National Health Services, It is NOT. It goes on to suggest the funds can help protect yourself against COVID-19 and to access the funds now by clicking on the blue hyperlink, Please DO NOT do this.
North Wales Police (NWP) have advised this has already cost the public more than £800,000 in a month and to contact Action Fraud for advice on: 0300 123 2040
CCTV appeal after assault in Weston-super-Mare.
We are investigating an assault in Weston-super-Mare town centre and are releasing CCTV images of two men we wish to speak to in connection with the incident.
A man in his 50s was walking along Burlington Street, towards Orchard Street, on Sunday 26 January when he was assaulted, causing injuries that required medical attention at Weston General Hospital.
The incident happened between 9.45-10pm.
The offenders came from the direction of Oxford Street and then left heading towards Alfred Street.
PC Jessica Cornish said: “CCTV footage shows two people have had an altercation with the victim during which he has been hit in the face. The victim had teeth knocked out and he broke his ankle, requiring surgery.
“We hope somebody will be able to recognise the two men, pictured on CCTV, and help us identify them so we can speak to them in connection with the incident.”
The two men we wish to identify are described as white and aged 18-24. One of them had short hair, is said to be of a slim build and he was wearing a grey tracksuit top and dark trousers. The other had short dark hair and a black tracksuit.
Anybody who witnessed what happened, or recognises the individuals, is asked to report it through our website or call 101 and give reference number 5220020601.
You can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111or via their Anonymous Online Form.
No personal details are taken, information cannot be traced or recorded and you will not go to court or have to speak to police when contacting Crimestoppers.
February Crime Figures – AN010
The attached document provides a breakdown of the crimes that occurred in your beat area during February 2020.
Attachments: an010.pdf
-----
See also COVID-19 Information post.
Make A Comment
Comments (0)