Stay alert to these common coronavirus scams

NatWest International is committed to providing its customers and communities with relevant advice and support about the latest frauds and scams to help people to protect themselves. Paul Brookes, Head of Local Banking, Jersey tells us about some common scams you should be aware of.

“We know scammers are using this current period of uncertainty as an opportunity to try and take advantage of the general public and their worries. We’ve seen an increase in criminals exploiting the coronavirus and using this as part of their scam tactics. Stay alert to any suspicious behaviour and remember to always:

• Be aware of unexpected phone calls, texts or emails about coronavirus from anyone. The bank will never ask you for your full PIN or password, card reader codes, or ask you to move money from your account.
• Never download attachments, software or let anyone remotely log into your computer following a call or email you’ve received out of the blue.
• If you are ever asked to do any of these things, refuse and contact us immediately using the number on the back of your card or a number you trust. If possible, call us back from a different phone or mobile.
• Pass this information on to your family and friends, especially the more vulnerable in our society.”

FOUR CURRENT SCAMS

1. Fake cures
   These are emails that claim there’s a cure that’s been covered up by various governments. There are a number of variations of this email. But it’s likely to ask you to click a link to receive more information about the cure. Do not click on this link as it’ll take you to a webpage that captures your bank login information.
2. Impersonation emails
   Scammers are sending out emails that look like they come from trusted organisations or brands. An attachment in the email claims to provide safety measures to combat coronavirus but opening it actually infects your device with malware that monitors your online activity and captures your information. Always check that the email address from the sender looks credible but if there is any doubt, do not open it.
3. Purchase scams
   Watch out for emails, ads, posts, texts or phone calls advertising anything to do with coronavirus – whether it’s for facemasks, vaccines or access to testing kits – any deals that look too good to be true usually are. Some emails claim to be from organisations such as the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for example, and request Bitcoin payments. You’ll be told that you’re donating towards a cure or paying for essential coronavirus information. These approaches are very likely to be a scammer trying to get their hands on your money or personal details.
4. Offers to make quick money
   There has been a huge increase in criminals trying to lure people into becoming money mules through ‘get rich quick’ job offers during these uncertain times. If a job ad looks too good to be true – it probably is. The personal consequences of allowing criminals to pay money through your account can be life-changing. Reject any offers of cash to let someone else use your bank account, it’s simply not worth it!

For further information on how you can protect yourself or your business, visit: www.natwestinternational.com/global/security-centre/reporting-fraud.html