Suffolk Trading Standards Warning of COVID-19 Scams

Suffolk Trading Standards is once again reminding people to beware of Covid-19 scams.

The warning follows reports of scam calls from an individual claiming to be from Public Health England, asking residents if they had received their letter from the government. 

The caller then goes on to ask if they have support from family and friends - and tries to obtain personal details. If you receive any such call, HANG UP.

Residents here in Suffolk are being told that they should not give any caller - any personal details from an unknown or untrusted number. 

Meanwhile, there are reports of several ‘coronavirus update’ apps, which claim to provide the latest details on the virus. 

The fake app contains a form of ‘ransomware’, named CovidLock, which upon downloading, locks the phone and displays a message demanding that the user pay a sum of money to unlock it. These apps are available to download from various unofficial websites.

Phone users are advised to only download apps directly from the Apple Store, or Android Play Store as these are safety checked by the platforms.

For trusted news and advice on Covid-19 coronavirus, check for updates from the Department of Health and Social Care in the UK, Public Health England and the World Health Organisation.

​You can report all scams to Suffolk Trading Standards by calling 0808 223 1133.

​