Police warning after a rise in online scams claiming to sell face masks

A warning has been issued by Cleveland Police after a growing number of reports of scammers claiming to sell face masks during the coronavirus lockdown.

Officers have said that Action Fraud have been receiving reports of phishing emails advertising face masks for sale.

The scam emails are aiming to play on the rumours that members of the public may be asked to wear face masks outside once lockdown is lifted.

People have also purchased large quantities of masks online which have not been delivered.

As well as online scams, there have been multiple reports from people who have received telephone calls with an automated messaged, claiming to be from the Government.

The calls are stating that all individuals need to wear face masks when they leave their home and then asks victims to “press one” in order to purchase a mask.

Action Fraud are advising members of the public to be vigilant and not to give any bank or personal details over the phone – something which police are reiterating.

The latest warning comes after last week, when Action Fraud reported a rise in fake emails from HMRC and several others pretending to be the official Government website.

If anyone who believes that they have possibly been a victim of fraud, officers are urging them to contact them on 101 or call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.

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