Halton Borough Council Trading Standards is warning consumers about a scam NHS Test & Trace payment email currently circulating.
The scam email wants you to click through the links (the blue buttons).
The links may contain malware that may harm your device, they may contain ransomware – this locks your device and the scammer will then request payment to release it, or they may take you to a site asking you to supply further personal details, or bank account information.
One of the elements that indicate it is a scam, is that near the end of the email (see highlighted yellow section) it states:
‘This isn’t personal advice. If you’re not sure if an investment is right for you, you should get advice. All investments go up and down in value, so you could get back less than you put in. Past performance isn’t a guide to the future.’
This terminology is generally used for investment articles and advertisements.
It is not appropriate or relevant to be in an email allegedly for NHS Test & Trace Payments, as it would not be an investment.
If you or somebody you know has been caught out by a scam or fraud please contact one of our specialist officers, Linda or Sue on 0151 511 8785 or 0151 511 8775, who are already working with people in Halton who have lost thousands of pounds to scams.
If you need advice on anything else please contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline or 0808 223 1133