Evil scammers are preying on peoples' Coronavirus fears to get them to reveal their bank details over the phone.

The former mayor of Eton Philip Highy has warned of the scam, after a relative of his received a phone call claiming to come from the NHS 'track and trace' service, telling them they needed to self-isolate and to be tested.

The caller asked for a bank card number to cover a £50 charge, saying: "There is a one-off fee of £50 for the kit and test results. Could you read off the long card number for me please, when you're ready."

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When the intended victim challenged this, the caller said: "Can you give me the card number please - this is very important, and there are penalties for not complying."

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Mr Highy's relative put the phone down but has put out a warning online which he is hoping will be widely shared.

Mr Highy said: "The concern is that a vulnerable person could easily be taken in by this and give out their card number.

"Remember that no Government organisation like the NHS would 'cold call' and ask someone to give out their card number over the phone."