WREXHAM Council have urged residents to be on alert for potential scams during the coronavirus outbreak.

They have stated that despite the current virus pandemic, doorstep criminals will continue to operate throughout the year, and sadly are using the current pandemic as an opportunity to further prey upon vulnerable people.

Wrexham Trading Standards have been informed by North Wales Police of a number of recent scams that have took place within the area.

Recent scams have included an attempt to extort cash from an elderly gentleman by men who were claiming to be 'chartered surveyors' in Rhos.

Another scam took place in Borras, which included a case of excessive pricing for work after a vulnerable lady with no family was contacted by an aerial company.

The men took her bank card and withdrew £200 from the account without permission.

The council have also stated that there has been a number of scam calls supposedly from Flintshire Council, with the scammers asking people for their bank details for 'a payment to continue to empty your black bin'.

These are all examples of how the current situation is being used to pressure vulnerable people into making ill-informed decisions that leave them out of pocket.

Wrexham Trading Standards have advised residents not to open their door if they are not expecting anyone.

However, they have stated that if residents did open their door to unexpected visitors, to simply say that they are not interested and to then close the door behind them.

They have advised to never engage with these people on the doorstep, as this way they do not take your money, they don't come into your home, and you are kept safe.

Other advice for residents is to never disclose personal details and to never give bank or payment card details if they are uncertain.

The Citizen’s Advice Consumer Service has updated their scam awareness pages with COVID-19 scam advice.

You can check if something might be a scam or what to do if you, or someone you know, has been scammed.

If you would like advice about scams or if you need to report a scam, please contact the Citizen’s Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.