Criminals Posing as Coronavirus Testers in the Chiswick Area

Knocking on doors of the vulnerable and claiming to be health officials

The Southfield ward Safer Neighbourhood team have published a warning that scam artists are operating in the Chiswick area claiming to be testing for the coronavirus in the area.

In an alert issued through the OWL messaging system they urge residents to be aware of criminals knocking on doors and claiming to be acting in an official capacity.

They advise you not to open your door to them or let them in and alert your friends relatives and neighbours to this scam.

The Metropolitan Police say, “Since the government has advised people to avoid unnecessary travel and stay at home where possible, we have received a small number of reports where people are using coronavirus as a guise to gain entry to homes and steal.

“If you get an unsolicited home visit from anyone offering a service and asking for payment or to be let into your home, our advice is to immediately request and check their ID and credentials carefully.

“ If you are not convinced or you still have suspicions, shut the door and report the matter to police by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.”

People and businesses are also more vulnerable to being a victim of cyber fraud, as they use the internet more to shop and communicate with friends and family.

There have been reports of coronavirus-themed phishing emails being sent. These attempt to trick members of the public into opening attachments which could enable fraudsters to steal personal information, passwords and banking details. Emails sent by fraudsters are often sophisticated and look like genuine emails from banks and other websites you might use regularly.

The majority of incidents reported relate to online shopping scams where members of the public have ordered and paid for personal protective equipment, which has then never arrived.

If you're making a purchase from a company or person you don't know and trust, carry out some research first, and ask a friend or family member for advice before completing the purchase.

If you decide to go ahead with the purchase, use a credit card if you have one, as most major credit card providers insure online purchases.

You are also advised to always install software and app updates to protect your devices from the latest threats.

Anyone who thinks they may be a fraud victim should speak to their bank immediately and contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.

Superintendent Lis Chapple, the Met’s lead for Crime Prevention, Inclusion and Engagement, said, “We are seeing communities across London rallying together to help each other through this unprecedented public health crisis, and what is a difficult time for many. However, there are a small number of unscrupulous people out there who see it as an opportunity to con others for personal gain.

"The most vulnerable in society are often targeted which makes the offending all the more despicable, and the Met is committed to identifying these people and ensuring they are held to account for their actions.

"Please take a moment to think about who you are speaking to, what you are agreeing to and what you may be clicking on online. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is."

March 21, 2020