TRADING Standards has warned residents to be vigilant of scammers posing as workers for the new NHS Test and Trace service.

The Government system, launched last week, has been designed to reduce the spread of coronavirus by either phoning, texting or emailing individuals who have had close contact with someone testing positive for Covid-19

However, BCP Council's Trading Standards officers warn some people, particularly the vulnerable or elderly, could be susceptible to fake calls or messages from criminals looking to access personal information or trick them into handing over money.

The real NHS Test and Trace service is a completely free service.

BCP Council communities member Cllr Lewis Allison said: "Unfortunately, even during this difficult time, people committing fraud will find ways to take advantage of vulnerable members of our community.

"No one is immune from scams, so we’re encouraging everyone to be vigilant and take steps to protect themselves by knowing what they will and won’t be asked if they are contacted by the NHS Test and Trace service.”

In neighbouring Hampshire a phone call has already been reported, claiming to be from the NHS Test and Trace Service informing the householder that they have been in contact with somebody who has tested positive for coronavirus.

The person is then informed that they need to self-isolate and take a test, before being asked for payment card details to cover the cost of the testing kit.

BCP Council says contact tracers will never ask you to dial a premium rate number (those starting 09 or 087); never ask you to make any form or payment or purchase; never ask for any bank account details, social media identities or login in details; never ask for personal passwords or pins; and never ask you to download any software to your PC, smartphone or tablet.

If you see or hear anything suspicious, report it to the Citizens Advice consumer service via www.citizensadvice.org.uk or call 0808 223 1133.