WIREDGOV

The Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) is warning the public not to open their doors to bogus healthcare workers claiming to be offering 'home-testing' for the COVID-19 Coronavirus.

The alert comes as part of the CTSI's ongoing advice to the public about scams and rogue practices relating to the spread of the disease.

Suspicious callers are said to have been knocking on doors of elderly and vulnerable residents in various parts of the UK, saying that they are health officials doing door-to-door testing.

Katherine Hart, CTSI Joint Lead Officer for Doorstep Crime, yesterday said:

"There are unfortunately people who are willing to take advantage of those who are most vulnerable even at this unprecedented time when we should all be pulling together.

"Those who have been advised to avoid social contact as part of the measures to help stop the spread of the virus are particularly at risk of being taken in by these cold callers.

"Our message is not to open the door to anyone you don't know or anyone calling 'out of the blue'. Stay safe by only speaking to people you know and trust."