Scammers posing as health service COVID-19 contact tracers attempt to swindle public

Police at Strand Road warned people to be vigilant.

"We’re asking you to be vigilant following reports of attempted criminal activity by fraudsters falsely claiming to be from the NHS Track and Trace system.

"It has been reported that in one incident, a member of the public was contacted for their bank details to process payment for a home kit. The person declined and contacted police.

"Our enquiries are continuing in relation to these reports and we would ask everyone to report any suspicious activity to police. Even during the current COVID-19 pandemic, it is clear that scammers will stop at nothing to target people.

"With people spending more time at home and possibly online, everyone needs to be vigilant of potential fraudulent activity to gain access to your bank details," the PSNI said.

Police urged people never to give out any personal or financial information to an unverified source via email, text or over the phone.

"If you receive any similar types of correspondence, please do not interact or reply to the scammers, but forward it through to Action Fraud or contact police.

"If you are concerned by unsolicited calls, text messages, emails or letters then please report it to Action Fraud via their website www.actionfraud.police.uk or by phoning 0300 123 2040, or call police on the non-emergency number 101. For further advice and information visit www.nidirect.gov.uk/scamwiseni," the force said.