The COVID-19 outbreak and lockdown measures have meant more people are now using online services to purchase goods and everyday groceries. Increased smartphone, tablet and computer usage during this time has allowed fraudsters to find opportunities to hack and scam members of the public. The team at QCS thought it would be wise to help you stay alert with cyber security and avoid any hassle.
Scams we should be aware of
COVID-19 scams
Many of you may be aware of chain messages being sent on email, SMS and WhatsApp. Normally these messages are harmless or have some form of fake news. But please be aware of an email which claims to be from the World Health Organisation (WHO) with a link to a PDF that provides advice on staying safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Once clicked, a pop-up screen appears which looks like the WHO official homepage that asks you to enter personal details and the password to your email account.
Government Branded Scams
As most of us are unable to access work during the pandemic, we are searching for a means of financial support or universal credit. Many of us are applying through gov.uk. Be aware of phishing scams taking place using HMRC as a disguise through emails and SMS. Examples of this include a “£250 fine” for leaving the house and the “goodwill” payment where HMRC require your personal bank details to transfer money. HMRC will never ask you to send over bank details. More information on HMRC scams can be found here.
Free School Meals
The Department of Education has warned those with children to be vigilant on scam emails being sent about eligibility for free school meals which require your bank details. This is a scheme that fraudsters are using to hack into your bank account. If in doubt, contact your child’s school to verify the email.
Face mask and Hand Sanitiser
COVID-19 has seen sales for masks and alcohol-based hand sanitisers soaring through the roof. Fraudsters are now seizing this opportunity to use pop-ups whilst you are online shopping to promote these items at reasonable prices. However, this is a phishing scam and the products advertised don’t arrive. Refrain from clicking these pop-ups as they will then ask for bank details to take money from your bank account.
These are just some of the main cases in the UK but as lockdown continues, we are aware that there will be more scams like this trying to hack into personal and banking details of individuals. Let’s make sure our cyber security is on maximum alert and before we make any purchases, ensure the site being used is safe and legitimate.
