The public are being warned of a scam that is exploiting the coronavirus contract tracing system.

It was revealed as early as May that fraudsters were using the cover of the government's Test and Trace platform in a bid to targeting vulnerable people.

The system - also known as Test, Trace and Protect - was also the subject of a warning by Martin Lewis.

And now the official Test and Trace app has finally launched in Wales and England, it seems that the scammers have returned.

That's according to several posts on social media recently which recommend remaining vigilant.

These have been shared by a number police forces in the UK and explain what the scam involves.

The NHS contact tracing app

The posts state that fraudsters have contacted people by phone pretending to be contact tracers.

They inform the victim that they're a "contact" and must self-isolate for 7 days as a result of this.

The potential victim is then told that they must take a coronavirus test which will cost them £50.

The call recipient is subsequently asked for a mailing address as well as details of a payment card.

The fraudsters then exert pressure by stating that there are "penalties for not complying".

Genuine contact tracers would not ask for card details or any other sensitive personal information.

Asked about whether it had received any reports of the scam, North Wales Police said that it hadn't.

A spokesperson however reminded that the app only launched last week so data isn't available yet.

Action Fraud is aware that fraudsters may be "taking advantage" of "the NHS Test and Trace system".

It acknowledges that "criminals will exploit every opportunity they can to defraud innocent people".

The national fraud reporting service has issued advice to the public about spotting the warning signs.

This includes noting that contact tracers call from 0300 013 5000, in England, and 02921 961133, in Wales.

Local contact tracers may also call from a local council number, though this varies per circumstance.

Anyone who doesn't wish to talk over the phone can actually request them to send an email or test instead.

In this scenario, they'll be asked to sign into the contact tracing website with a unique reference number.

Action Fraud has further stated that contact tracers will never:

  • ask you to dial a premium rate number (e.g. those starting 09 or 087)
  • ask you to make any form of payment or purchase a product
  • ask for any details about your bank account
  • ask for your social media identities or login details
  • ask you for any passwords or PINs
  • ask you to set up any passwords or PINs over the phone
  • ask you to download any software or ask you to hand over control of your device
  • ask you to access any website that does not belong to the government or NHS

If you think you've been a victim of fraud, you should report it to Action Fraud.

This can be done on its official website or by calling 0300 123 2040 - and by 101 in Scotland.

Find out more about contact tracing through the UK Government and the Welsh Government.