Coronavirus: Warnings over scams in Norfolk during pandemic

Officials are warning people in Norfolk to be vigilant to a number of coronavirus-related scams that have recently been reported in the area.

In a Facebook post, Norfolk County Council Trading Standards said during the outbreak, they aim to highlight scams using the current situation as part of their approach.

They are urging people to share the information with friends, family and neighbours.

The following are the scams they are currently highlighting:

• People purporting to be from British Red Cross going door-to-door in Norfolk cold-calling at the properties of elderly and vulnerable people offering to do shopping. They are then asking for money to pay for the items but if money is given, they leave the property and do not returning. British Red Cross has said: "All British Red Cross staff and volunteers have clear and recognisable ID and uniforms." If you are doorstep cold-called by someone claiming to be from British Red Cross and they do not have ID, Trading Standards advises you to close the door immediately.
• British Red Cross have also been made aware that their name and logo are being used on postcards offering help and assistance. They have said: "British Red Cross are NOT utilising a postcard system currently in connection to Covid-19 and any distribution of these cards locally needs to be reported to the authorities immediately."
• There have been reports from Trading Standards in other parts of the country of doorstep callers claiming to be working for the NHS, stating that they are able to provide a Covid-19 vaccine. Alongside this there has been reports of people cold-calling attempting to charge to attend properties to deliver coronavirus testing kits. Trading Standards said: "We would advise that any unexpected contact taking this approach IS NOT GENUINE."

To report doorstep cold-callers in Norfolk, contact Trading Standards through their partners the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133 or Norfolk Constabulary on 101.

They also have the following advice:

• If you feel intimidated or see doorstep cold-callers and are concerned for vulnerable neighbours call 999

• If you want to support a neighbour who is self-isolating, you can download a postcard on the Norfolk County Council website to tell them that you're available – visit https://www.norfolk.gov.uk/care-support-and-health/health-and-wellbeing/adults-health/coronavirus

• If someone offers you help, ensure you only use someone you know and trust

• If you need to get work done on or around your property try a Norfolk Trusted Trader. To search the directory and read feedback from their customers visit www.norfolk.gov.uk/trustedtrader