Text scams demanding fines and claiming victims have been breaching lockdown rules, according to Lincolnshire Trading Standards

Lincolnshire Trading Standards officers are warning about scam texts being received locally impersonating the police or UK government officers.

They warned: “Please delete the message and do not call the number. Stay safe.”

An example of the text has been circulated alleging it is an coronavirus alert from Gov.uk.

It states: “It has come to our attention that you have been out of the house more than once. Due to this irresponsible behaviour, we are issuing you a formal warning and £250 fine. If this continues, the fine could increase to a maximum of £5,000 and/or an arrest. Payment will be taken automatically out of your account.”

The scammers providd a contact number for any enquiries or to appeal.

Matt Drury, Principal Investigator from the council’s counter fraud team said earlier this week: “We know that scammers have tailored their activity in light of the coronavirus outbreak and are playing on people’s fears and financial concerns. We are seeing more ‘phishing attacks’ where bank account details or sign-in information is stolen.

“This is carried out through encouraging the recipient to visit fake websites promising tax refunds and even a recent attempt encouraging parents to claim refunds for school meal payments. We’re now seeing scams where people are being told they have been fined for leaving the house. This is designed to obtain personal or financial details.”

Coun Alex Maughan, Lincolnshire County Council’s Counter-Fraud Champion said: “During these times where we are seeing the best in many people who are volunteering and looking after loved ones, it’s horrible to think that we are also seeing the worst in others.

“Please be extra vigilant when you see claims about coronavirus, or if you see others sharing information which may be false. The best way to check is with the official government and council advice which you can access on our website.”