This post from Hampshire County Council does worry me. It is one of the reasons that I have set up the 'Neighbourhood help around Meon Valley' page, so people know who are the right people to go to for help. Please alert any elderly or vulnerable people to this as they will be feeling very worried at this time and asking for help.
Hampshire Trading Standards warn residents to be alert to scams during coronavirus pandemic
Hampshire County Council’s Trading Standards team is warning residents to be extra vigilant as the coronavirus pandemic could increase the risk of everyone, particularly vulnerable people, falling victims to scams and rogue traders.
Leader of Hampshire County Council, Councillor Keith Mans, said:
The coronavirus pandemic is quickly changing the way we lead our lives, with many residents now staying at home. Unfortunately, we are hearing about new scams that Hampshire residents could potentially fall victim to at this time, particularly on their own doorstep. We are determined to do everything we can to protect them from this, particularly the most vulnerable in our communities.
Please familiarise yourself with advice from Hampshire Trading Standards Service team. Share the information with friends, family members and neighbours as forewarned can often mean you are forearmed.
Known coronavirus related scams include:
- People claiming to offer door-to-door or online testing kits. Residents are warned not to open the door or place an online order.
- Elderly residents who are self-isolating being targeted for help with shopping. Only use trusted sources such as friends and families
- Emails claiming to be from the Government offering a tax rebate to support people through this challenging time. Online advice available.
- Retailers overcharging for staple items such as toilet rolls.
If you are aware, or become suspicious of, these scams taking place in your neighbourhood, please let Hampshire Trading Standards officers know.
For further advice or to report an issue to Hampshire County Council Trading Standards Service please phone our partners at the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 2231133.
If assistance is required outside of these hours, phone Hampshire Police on their non-urgent number 101 or dial 999 if you feel threatened or intimidated.
Citizens Advice (CitA) has launched advice on coronavirus scams, including a scam checker. Please use trusted sources of information.
For more details on the national guidance on Coronavirus, go to the County Council’s dedicated web pages.
