New online scams have surfaced in the wake of Covid-19, targeting people during a time of increased vulnerability.
New online scams have surfaced in the wake of Covid-19, targeting people during a time of increased vulnerability.

Shabana Mahmood, MP for Birmingham Ladywood, is cautioning constituents to be aware of new online scams during the pandemic. New online scams have surfaced in the wake of Covid-19, targeting people during a time of increased vulnerability and dependence on the internet. The Birmingham Ladywood MP is recommending that constituents check out the Citizens Advice Scams Action guidance to increase their safety online.

It is important that people are aware of the many new online scams that are surfacing and attempting to use the Coronavirus to target people. The pandemic has resulted in many people spending more time online, simultaneously increasing the opportunities for scammers to target people.

Online scams can be difficult to recognise; with new online scams including fake e-mails and texts pretending to be from the Government offering support, and illegitimate individuals or companies selling fake medical equipment. People are more stressed than ever due to the pandemic, meaning that they are more likely to be manipulated by online scammers preying on their vulnerability.

Citizens Advice offers a Scams Action Service that can be accessed online or by phone and is available to help people throughout the pandemic. It is important that people are aware of the online scams that are being conducted, and that they have the knowledge and information that they need to protect themselves online.

Shabana Mahmood MP said: 

“It is important that we spread awareness of the new online scams that are surfacing during the pandemic. Covid-19 has increased people’s vulnerability online, and without this information, they may not recognise that they are being targeted.

“The unscrupulous actions of those wishing to scam us during one of our most testing times is indefensible. I will continue to work with local authority officials, police and call for tougher action from the government. We cannot allow those who wish to swindle us out of our hard-earned cash to get away with fraud.

“If you suspect and that you are being targeted by an online scam, you should refrain from clicking on any links, sharing information, or sending money. Cease communication and contact Citizens Advice scams advisers who can give you support and let you know what to do next.”

LINKS

Top Tips from Citizen’s Advice: https://conversation.which.co.uk/scams/citizens-advice-pandemic-scams/?fbclid=IwAR0BAMS6A-K75HGtcf5b_k34FaTNUfKIaEo5JQYbE5SUzEP6dGrzOxM4eJQ

Contact the Citizens Advice #ScamsAction service online or over the phone: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/scams/get-help-with-online-scams/

Scam Sharer Tool: https://act.which.co.uk/page/77711/data/1?utm_source=conversation&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=scams_week_2021

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