Lincolnshire Police has issued a warning that scammers may try and profit from Coronavirus crisis.

The police force did not identify any specific examples but national media has reported cases such as people 'selling' facemasks, which were never delivered, or fraudsters mentioning Coronavirus when they seek to gain people's bank details.

The Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Lincolnshire, Stuart Tweedale, has warned: "Whilst we are living through difficult times, we need to be aware there are those who will use the current situation to exploit others for their own benefit.

"I want to highlight the appalling situation that fraudulent emails, phone calls, text messages, posts via social media, even those who call at our doors and claim to be helping are using coronavirus as a cover story,

"Fraudsters will then attempt to get recipients to disclose personal or financial information or click on links that may contain malware - which then will be used for their own fraudulent purposes.

"If you receive any such telephone calls emails etc, then contact

Lincs Police 101

Action Fraud https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/ or Tel 0300 123 2040

Citizens Advice Scam Advice helpline 0808 250 5050 from 9am – 5pm

For information, visit these websites https://takefive-stopfraud.org.uk/ https://www.friendsagainstscams.org.uk/ A key message to remember is Take Five – STOP – CHALLENGE - PROTECT "Stop: Take a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe "Challenge: could it be fake? Its ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you. "Protect: Contact your bank immediately if you think you've fallen for a scam and report it to Action Fraud." Further information on Coronavirus, compiled by Nub news using official NHS and government sources can be found here.