Residents in Helston and surrounding areas have been warned about a series of scam text messages claiming to be from NHS Test & Trace.

The messages inform the recipient that they have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid-19 or Omicron and asks them to click on a link to order a test.

They are sent from seemingly random mobile phone numbers – a tell-tale sign they are a scam.

Elizabeth Kirk, Senior Trading Standards Officer at Cornwall Council, said:

"These texts can seem very genuine, but the NHS, government, or Public Health Cornwall would never send messages like this from a mobile phone.

"The most important thing is to remember that the scammers want you to click a link. If you click the link, you could enable them to download malware, viruses, or other nasties.

"It might also give them access to your passwords for internet banking or any other sites you access from your phone."

Cllr Martyn Alvey, Cornwall Council's Portfolio Holder for Public Protection, added:

"I would urge anyone who receives a text message that they are unsure about to think twice before clicking any links or divulging any personal information and seek advice."

Cornwall Council issued the following advice:

• Close the web page it opened ASAP. This prevents further harm.
• NEVER enter passwords or other personal information onto any page you have opened by clicking a link.
• Reset any passwords you may have revealed.
• Update your phone's operating system.
• Block the number that the text came from.
• Report the scam to Action Fraud.

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