A TORRENT of Covid-19 scams are targeting people by phone, online and on the doorstep, investigators have warned. 

Criminals are exploiting fears about the pandemic, selling fake medical equipment, running off with elderly people’s shopping money and posing as mortgage lenders over the phone. 

Scammers have even targeted families entitled to free school meals.

The Department of Education sent out a warning on its social media this week about emails promising to give meals in return for bank details. 

National Trading Standards chairman Toby Harris said: “At a time when neighbourhoods and communities are coming together to support each other, it is despicable that heartless criminals are exploiting members of the public — including some of our most vulnerable citizens — to line their own pockets.

“I urge everyone to be on their guard for possible Covid-19 scams and to look out for vulnerable family members, friends and neighbours who may become a target for fraudsters.”

Mr Harris urged people to report suspicious behaviour or content to Action Fraud. 

For more information on the types of Covid-19 scams see www.friendsagainstscams.org.uk.