AUTHORITIES have shared advice to help protect people and businesses from fraudsters looking to exploit the coronavirus pandemic.

In recent weeks there have been reports of scammers using a range of methods to try and con residents through all sorts of mediums.

They include phone calls, letters, text and door-to-door calls, with fraudsters using scams such as the offer of coronavirus testing kits, protective equipment, goodwill payments or tax rebates as well as fake apps and much more.

Hampshire County Council’s Trading Standards team has listed a number of these scams for people to be wary of. Tips have also been shared in a bid to help people avoid becoming victims of frauds.

They include:

- Be sceptical, not everyone has your best interests at heart

- Unless you are expecting a visitor, do not open the door to cold callers.This is especially important at this current time of social distancing and self-isolation

- Do not accept help from people who want money up front, for example for shopping

- Never give your debit/credit card or PIN number to anyone

- Take your time, don’t be rushed on the phone, and if in any doubt, hang up and check with a friend or relative

- Do not click on links in text (SMS) or emails unless you know who they are from

- If you are online, be aware of fake news and use trusted sources such as .gov.uk or NHS.uk

- Facebook Community Groups, WhatsApp Groups and the Nextdoor App that send neighbourhood alerts can be great ways of staying in touch with those around you. However, it can be difficult to know who to trust

- Know who you are dealing with; if you need help, talk to someone you know or get in touch with your local Council

Hampshire Constabulary has also shared further advice from The National Cyber Security Centre about protecting your organisation from coronavirus scam emails.

To find out more go to ncsc.gov.uk/guidance/home-working