COUNCIL bosses have urged the public to be vigilant after a number of scams exploiting coronavirus have targeted people in Barnsley.

The scams which range from doorstep scams to cold calling, have sprung up across the borough and target people's fears about the virus.

Some scams range from being asked to pay for a 'deep-clean' of your drive to help kill the virus, to being asked to pay for a test or other medical equipment.

Older people are more vulnerable to the scams, especially as many are self-isolating or shielding at home.

Some of the scams include:

  • Fake holiday refunds for cancelled trips

  • Email scams that appear to be coronavirus alerts which encourage people to open malicious attachments

  • The sale of counterfeit hand sanitizer, face masks, or coronavirus testing kits

  • Phone calls claiming to be from your bank or mortgage provider

Council bosses now want to urge residents to be vigilant and listen to your instincts to avoid falling prey to the scams.

A spokesperson said: “At no point will you be asked to provide bank details or payment if the NHS test and trace service contact you.

“Also, if a person is visiting you and claims to be from the council ask to see ID – a council worker will be wearing a visible ID badge.

“Please remain vigilant, be cautious, and listen to your instincts.

“Don't be afraid to hang up on the caller, bin an email, delete an email, or shut the door.”

If you think you have been scammed, tell your bank and report it to Action Fraud on 0300 1232042.