Sick track and trace Covid scam hits Milton Keynes

First the scammer alarms peopel by telling them they have been in "close proximity" to someone who has tested positive for Covid-19.

They tell them they have to self-isolate for 7 days and take a coronavirus test within the next 72 hours.

Before the person can digest this, the scammer asks for their address so they can mail a home testing kit to them.

"At this stage, I gave my address, not realising anything was wrong. I was still in shock, to be honest," said one MK resident who received the call this week.

"But then suddenly the man said he needed to take my card details so I could pay for the kit. I said I thought it was free, but he told me there was a fee of £50, which included the test and the results.

"He kept asking for the long number on my Visa card - and he even warned me there was a fine if I didn't buy the test.

"At that point , I realised it was a scam and put the phone down."

There is a worry, however, that vulnerable people will fall for the ruse. Age UK charity has already put out a warning for people to be wary of such scams.

The charity's spokesman said: " There has been an increase in scam calls in relation to NHS Track and Trace where people are being asked to pay for a home testing kit.

"NHS track and Trace Service will never ask you to pay for a test, ask for bank details, passwords or pin numbers. Never share personal details if you are not sure who you are talking to."