Coronavirus: Warning issued over text message scam that tells recipients they have been fined for ignoring lockdown

'Criminals are callously exploiting the coronavirus outbreak to commit fraud... avoid clicking on links in any unsolicited text messages in case it’s a scam,' says UK Finance

Financial firms are warning the public of fake text messages claiming to be issuing fines to people for going outside or offering payments related to coronavirus.

Spam texts, also known as 'smishing texts', claim to be from legitimate organisations such as banks or government departments and aim to trick people into giving away personal and financial information or money.

Trade association UK Finance urged people to avoid clicking on any links within suspicious text messages and to always keep their personal information updated or make any legitimate payments through their bank.

The fake texts may claim the recipient has a “penalty payment” outstanding after they were apparently seen leaving their house on several occasions.

UK Finance also wanted of another technique called “spoofing”, which can make a fake message appear in a chain alongside previous genuine messages from organisations.

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Katy Worobec, managing director of economic crime at UK Finance, said: “Criminals are callously exploiting the coronavirus outbreak to commit fraud, including using scam text messages imitating government departments, banks and other trusted organisations.

“We are urging consumers to remain vigilant and avoid clicking on links in any unsolicited text messages in case it’s a scam.”

Last week, Wirral Council issued a smishing advisory on its Twitter account, warning residents of a text message offering a payment of £458 from the UK government.

The council said: "Please do not click the link, and delete it immediately!"

Before giving away any information or money, the association is encouraging consumers to follow the advice of the ‘Take Five to Stop Fraud' campaign, which urges people to challenge such text messages and contact their bank if they believe it’s a scam.

Consumers can also report any suspicious text messages to their network provider by forwarding it to 7726, added UK Finance.