Scams: Information about scams currently circulating
Unfortunately, we’ve had reports of a number of scams currently doing the rounds.
We’d like to make sure you’re aware and can protect yourself from these fraudsters, so we’ve included details on the scams below.
In the meantime, for some general online security advice it’s worth checking our guides. They’ll let you know how to stay secure and safe online:
Amazon Prime scams
Email scam
Some Amazon Prime customers have reported receiving an email which appears to come from Amazon Prime. The email says that your order can’t be shipped until you confirm your information.
However, clicking any of the links in the email will direct you to what looks like Amazon’s website, but it’s fake. You’ll be asked for your name, address and credit card details, but once you enter these they’ll be sent to the cybercriminals behind the scam.
Think you’ve fallen victim to this scam? If so please:
- Contact your bank immediately.
- Change your Amazon password.
- Let Amazon know.
Phone scam
This scam involves you receiving an automated call. In this you’re told that a fraudster has used your personal details to set up an Amazon Prime subscription.
You’re advised to ‘press 1’ to be connected to Amazon Prime customer service, so they can help. However, by pressing 1 you’ll connect with the scammer. You’ll be told that they’ll need to remotely connect to your computer to fix a security flaw and to do this you’ll need to download an application called Team Viewer.
Once connected to your computer from Team Viewer they’ll ask you to log in to your online banking. At this point they’ll steal your banking details, or may try to transfer money from your account.
Coronavirus scams
Some scammers are even trying to take advantage of the Covid-19 pandemic to mislead and rip people off. There are number of scams reported and Action Fraud have reported total losses of approximately one million pounds through coronavirus-related scams to date.
Think you may have fallen victim to a coronavirus scam, or want more details? Take a look at Action Fraud’s Coronavirus-related fraud reports.
Please stay safe, keep a lookout for scammers and report any suspicious activity straightaway.
We know that cyber security can feel daunting, so we have teamed up with the National Cyber Security Centre to offer the latest advice on how to keep safe, particularly in this troubling time.
Kevin Brown, managing director of BT Security, said:
“As we adjust to the current situation and online services become even more critical, it’s vital that we are all aware of and follow security best practice. The NCSC has provided a fantastic set of guidance and resources for the UK’s citizens and businesses, and we’re delighted to be working with them to keep the UK safe online.”
The NCSC has been taking down malicious sites since its creation in 2016, and its Active Cyber Defence programme last year took down 190,000 fraudulent sites and stopped 140,000 phishing attacks. You can find out more about the Cyber Aware campaign at www.ncsc.gov.uk/CyberAware.