Coronavirus: Fraudsters exploiting virus fears take £970,000

SCAMS linked to the coronavirus have soared with victims losing nearly £970,000.
By Ben Fishwick
Published 20th Mar 2020, 17:17 BST
Updated 20th Mar 2020, 17:18 BST
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Fraudsters exploiting fears around the deadly virus are lining their pockets.

Across Britain there were 105 reports since February 1. Between March 1 and 13 there have been 46 reports, and 38 in just four days - March 14-18.

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Frauds include inducing people to buy medical supplies online, sending emails offering fake medical support and targeting people who may be vulnerable or increasingly isolated. Around 200 phishing emails have been detected.

Scammers have made £970,000 out of the coronavirus pandemic in BritainScammers have made £970,000 out of the coronavirus pandemic in Britain
Scammers have made £970,000 out of the coronavirus pandemic in Britain

Detective Chief Inspector Nick Bell, head of cyber crime and economic crime for the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit said: 'Criminals will always exploit the latest opportunity that they see in the news.

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'They will use this to take advantage of people’s vulnerabilities.

'The South East Regional Crime Unit is working hard to catch these criminals and disrupt criminal activity.

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'In these difficult times, it can be easy to drop your guard, but please remember whether you are an individual or business, please watch out for scam messages. Please go to Action Fraud and the NCSC for the latest guidance.'