Kent residents lured into buying gift cards and vouchers

We have received reports of scammers trying to lure residents into buying gift cards and vouchers.

What happens:

• You receive an email from a friend claiming they need to buy an Amazon gift card.
• They say it’s for their nieces birthday & they are unable to go out due to Covid.
• They ask you to purchase the card in the shop or online. You will then be asked to send the code to their nieces email address.
• You will be reimbursed later.

What to do:

• This is a SCAM
• Do not give any personal or financial information.
• Your friends email has been hacked & the criminals are using their contact list to target you.
• Call your friend on a trusted number to check if the request is genuine.
• Report scams to Citizens Advice on 0808 250 5050.

Please warn vulnerable family members, friends and neighbours.