Criminals are exploiting the coronavirus crisis to try and and swindle money from unsuspecting members of the public. Fraudsters have been posing as genuine organisations such as health organisations, banks, police officers and contacting victims by email, phone or text.
There have also been reports of people cold-calling the homes of the elderly or vulnerable. They claim to be able to provide medical guidance, investment opportunities or a safe place to transfer and keep money, using Covid-19 as a cover story.
Victims are then tricked into making purchases, or disclosing personal or financial information. Action Fraud, part of the City of London Police, say they received their first report on February 1 and these have increased by 400