Warning sounded over track and trace scammers
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RESIDENTS are being warned to remain vigilant after scam artists tried to con people into paying for Covid tests.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said phone calls from "despicable" fraudsters pretending to be Test and Protect contact tracers had been reported.
Banffshire and Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson urged people living in the north-east to take caution when contacted by anyone claiming to be from track and trace.
He said: "Anyone calling from track and trace will not ask you for any details regarding health other than directly related to the coronavirus.
"A caller will also not ask for social media details, passwords or pins or request you to make any payments.
"It is important we also alert any older people in the community who may be vulnerable to this type of scam what to look out for."
The warning was echoed by Aberdeenshire East MSP Gillian Martin, who said: "It is truly shocking that during such a time of crisis anyone would attempt to take advantage of it, I would urge anyone who receives a phone call regarding track and trace in which they are asked for any bank details to immediately hang up the phone.
"No one working in contact tracing will be asking for these details – tests are free."
Contact tracers will always call from the same number – 0800 030 8012 – and will give the option of calling back.
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