Suffolk Trading Standards have issues two warnings after scammers used the Coronavirus pandemic to try and take advantage of people on the peninsula.

A Nub News reader contacted us and trading standards after receiving a phone call pretending to be from 'Southern Electric' offering £5,000 credit 'to help people through the Coronavirus crisis' if they can collect a £520 cash payment.

The caller goes on to advice that they will visit the property of the resident to collect the payment, and then the credit will be added to their account."

This is a scam.

A Suffolk Trading Standards spokeswoman said: "Be suspicious of unexpected calls, especially if you're asked to make an up-front payment or to give your bank account details. The safest thing to do is hang up.

"Avoid making a payment to a company or person that contacts you out of the blue, especially if you're asked to purchase a voucher, pay directly into a bank account, use a money transfer company, or to pay a courier."

If you think you have been approached by scammers, you should report it to us via Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.

If you think you might have been scammed, stop sending money to the company and individuals involved straight away.

If you have given them your bank account details, tell your bank immediately.

the trading standards team have also warned of doorstep callers claiming to be working for the NHS, stating that they are able to provide a Covid-19 vaccine.

Scammers will undoubtedly take advantage of the current situation, whether it is to extort money, or to gain access to your home.

The advice is:

- Never sign or agree to anything on the spot.

- Check the trader's identity. Always ask for an identity card and look up the organisation to check the salesperson's identity is genuine.

- Be wary of special offers or warnings about your home or your health.

- Read the small print. Always read documents carefully before you sign them and make sure you fully understand your rights.

- Double check the facts.

- Talk to someone you trust for a second opinion.

- Trust your instincts. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Please report any cold callers to Trading Standards via 0808 223 1133.