IT appears that not a day goes by without something coming through from either the alert system or direct from Devon and Cornwall Police drawing our attention to yet another scam or fraud.

It’s not unusual and it’s not new, such things have been going on for years and unfortunately a considerable number of people fall foul of these unscrupulous individuals or groups who use the opportunity to part us from our funds.

Some very sophisticated methods are used and the rogue telephone calls, emails, and texts that bombard individuals and businesses are elaborate and to all intents and purposes appear quite legitimate and genuine.

However, despite the warnings, many are still getting drawn in and becoming victims and part of the statistics.

Devon and Cornwall police, along with the national fraud centres, work hard to try and ensure that the public are protected as far as is possible by continually bringing to our attention the latest scams and fraudulent activities. Devon and Cornwall Police’s Cyber Protect Unit is currently urging residents to be aware of a text scam which purports to come from the NHS. Recipients receive a message stating that they are eligible to apply for their vaccine and there is a link to click on to get more information and to ‘apply’.

Clicking on the link takes users to a fake ‘NHS’ website which then asks for personal and financial details in order to verify their identity. This is something the NHS would never do.

Please remain vigilant of Coronavirus scams!

Cybercriminals exploit current events such as the pandemic, preying on our fears and sending ‘phishing’ text messages that try and entice users into clicking on a bad link.

Stop and think! Always follow the advice from the Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign and stop, challenge, protect when being asked for your money or information through a text message, email or social media. Visit https://takefive-stopfraud.org.uk/covid-19/general-advice-covid/ for details.

For further advice on staying safe online we also recommend readers to visit Cyber Aware, which is the government’s advice page on how to stay secure online. It’s at https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/cyberaware/home

Action Fraud is the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime where you should report cases if you have been scammed, defrauded or experienced cybercrime. Visit https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/ or phone 0300 123 2040

Devon and Cornwall Police’s Cyber Protect Unit Cyber Protect Unit offers free security training to business, organisations and public groups. [email protected] and follow the unit on Twitter for the latest news and advice – search @DC_CyberProtect

Stay safe everyone, it’s easy to be conned but just as easy to take a few simple precautions.