bulletin from Suffolk Trading Standards
Here is an example of a recent Test and Trace phone call scam where the recipient is noted as X. Thankfully in this case the recipient realised it was a scam.
Caller: Good morning. I am calling from the NHS Track and Trace Service. According to our system you are likely to have been in close proximity to someone who has tested positive for Covid-19 test.
X: Ok, can you tell me who that person was?
Caller: I am not able to do that. That is confidential information.
X: Right …So?
Caller: But you do need to be tested within the next 72 hours. So, can I get the best mailing address so that we can send a kit to you?
X: Ok ( gives address).
Caller: Thank you. I just need to take a payment card so that we can finalise this and send the kit to you.
X: Sorry, a payment card? I thought this was all free?
Caller: No, I am afraid not. There is a one-off payment of £500 for the kit and the test results. Could you read off the long card number for me, please, when you are ready?
X: No, that’s not right. This is part of the NHS so there is no charge.
Caller: I am afraid there is. Can you give me the card number please – this is very important and there are penalties for not complying.
X: puts the phone down.
Testing through the NHS is free.
If you should encounter a similar phone call, put the phone down as this is a scam.
Report all scams to us via 0808 223 1133.