With people worried about their health, their families and their jobs, fraudsters have been taking advantage of the climate of fear and capitalising on the COVID-19 crisis.
Huge increase in cases
On 20th March, Action Fraud released figures showing that reports of scams had increased by 400% in March. The majority of reports concerned online shopping scams, with victims purchasing protective products (such as hand sanitiser) that failed to arrive.
Other examples involved phishing (or 'smishing'), where scammers attempt to trick victims into clicking on a malicious link in an email or SMS, and lender loan fraud, whereby victims are offered access to quick cash in return for an upfront fee.
Keep safe
The government has issued advice to help vulnerable people protect their money from scammers:
- Get the company's name and look them up on the FCA's Financial Services Register
- Don't click on links from senders you don't know
- Be wary of deals that sound to good to be true
- Don't give out personal details
- Take the time to make checks, even if this means turning down an 'amazing deal'
- Seek financial guidance before making any big decisions
Talk to us if you are unsure about financial opportunities, please contact us first - we can help you find out whether they are legitimate.
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage
We can help you!
At Simmonds Mortgage Services we can give you the expert advice you need and help you with your mortgage or insurance needs. Get in touch today 01344 225 149 or 07979 690 056. Alternatively please send us an email at info@simmondsmortgage.co.uk
Simmonds Mortgage Services is an appointed representative of Stonebridge Mortgage Solutions Ltd and can source the most appropriate cover from its panel of insurers with a free review of you overall protection and insurance needs. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply.