Scamming in the UK: And so it begins

Just to let you know these phone calls are going round.

‘Good morning, I’m calling from the NHS track and trace service. According to our system, you are likely to have been in close proximity to someone who has tested postive for COVID-19. This means that you now need to self-isolate for 7 days and take a COVID-19 test.’

‘OK. Can you tell me who that person was?’

‘I’m not able to tell you that. That is confidential information.’

‘Right. Um… so ….’

‘But you do need to be tested within the next 72 hours. So can I just get the best mailing address so that we can send a kit to you?’

‘Ok (gives address)’

‘Thank you – and I just need to take a payment card so that we can finalise this and send the kit to you.’

‘Sorry – a payment card? I though this was all free?’

‘No – I’m afraid not. There is a one-off fee of £500 for the kit, and test results. Could you read off the long card number for me, please, when you’re ready.’

‘No – that’s not right. This is part of the NHS so there’s no charge.’

‘I’m afraid there is. Can you give me the card number please – this is very important, and there are penalties for not complying.’

Puts phone down.

This is how scammers work. And vulnerable people will fall for it.

Don’t fall for it…!

Terri Murphy-Manley