A warning has been issued following a wave of scam calls aimed at members of the public in Kent.

Residents in Ashford and Tenterden have received calls in which an automated voice claims to be from the Government Coronavirus helpline.

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The voice reportedly tells the intended victim that the government has released new instructions for members of the public to wear facemasks.

It then instructs you to purchase a face mask by pressing button 'one'.

However, as of Wednesday April 29 there has been no such instruction by the UK government, and Public Protection Kent (PPK) are advising residents to hang up the phone immediately.

A PPK spokesperson said: "During this time of uncertainty scammers and criminals are trying to take advantage and are targeting people with scams related to COVID-19

"Do not press 'one'- this is a scam, the Government has not asked the public to wear a mask at this time.

"Additionally, the government would not ask you to purchase items in this way."

It is not known if the scam calls have been received elsewhere in Kent.

Recent figures have revealed that fraud linked to the pandemic's increased four-fold in the last month alone - with almost a million pounds stolen from victims across the UK.

Earlier this month, Canterbury City Council were forced to issue a statement after scam text messages targeted residents.

For advice on scams and to report call Citizens Advice consumer service 0808 223 1133 or visit their webpages here.

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