ISLANDERS are being warned to look out for a number of new scams reported to Trading Standards.

Here is a round-up of scams that have come to light this week:

  • Phone calls from Open Reach to say they are in your area and there is a problem with your line and asking you to log into your laptop/PC and download an app ­­— don't. This is a scam.
  • Scam texts and calls purporting to be HMRC.

Sometimes they will indicate that you are entitled to a refund, other times they can be particularly intimidating accusing you of owing money and threatening arrest if you don’t do what they say.

Both are scams ­— the HMRC will never contact you in this way.

  • Phone call saying that your National Insurance number has been compromised and asking you to press one ­— don't, hang up.

This is a scam, they will try to gain your personal and/or banking information.

  • Whatsapp message advising you that there is a scam going around called Martinelli and telling you to share this with your contacts so that nobody falls victim to it.

The actual Whatsapp message is the scam and is designed to mine as much contact information as it can for future scams ­— don't share it ­— delete it.

Scam texts can be forwarded to 7726 and scam emails can be sent on to report@phishing.gov.uk where the information will be gathered and used for intelligence.

You should report scams online via Action Fraud or by calling 0300 123 2040.

A short video aimed at raising awareness around scams and doorstep crime is available at www.friendsagainstscams.org.uk