SCOTLAND'S approach to implementing the ‘test, trace, isolate, support’ strategy, Test and Protect, is live across the country and has now been supported by the release of a proximity app, Protect Scotland, downloadable onto smartphones, but now scammers are trying to reap rewards from the scheme.

And MSPs Annabelle Ewing and Alex Rowley, are urging the people of the Cowdenbeath-Lochgelly area to beware of people getting in touch and trying to get key details from them.

When contacting individuals who have tested positive, contact tracers will ask people to identify others who they’ve been in close contact with and places they’ve been 48 hours prior to the onset of symptoms up until the time they’ve self-isolated. This information will then be inputted into contact tracing software and used to identify and contact those identified.

The positive individual will not be named by the contact tracer in line with patient confidentiality, unless they agree to have their details disclosed to help the contact tracing process.

Importantly, contact tracers will not ask anyone for information about bank accounts or medical records, and they will not try to sell you anything. The data gathered will be stored securely by NHS Scotland and safely destroyed as soon as possible after the pandemic concludes.

Cowdenbeath MSP Annabelle Ewing said: “The launch of the proximity app Protect Scotland just a week ago has been very successful, indeed, with nearly a million downloads already and that is a fantastic indicator of the determination of the whole community to play a part in halting the spread of this virus.

“Infuriatingly, there are always people with criminal intent prepared to take advantage of public uncertainty around new developments and I understand that people may be worried about the risks of potential phone scams. Knowing what to expect from a genuine contact tracer can help to guard against these despicable scammers.

“I want to urge constituents to be vigilant but also to reassure them that the NHS already has a number of protections in place to stop potential fraudsters and ensure all information is kept confidential.

“Contact tracers will introduce themselves, state the reason for their call, and will always identify who they are calling by name. They will not ask for information about bank accounts or medical records, and they will not try to sell you anything.

“I want to make it absolutely clear that Covid tests are free and no genuine contact tracer will ever ask for bank details.

“The tracers are supported by software which builds on a tried and trusted platform, allowing teams to identify outbreaks and reduce transmission for high risk groups here in Cowdenbeath."

Commenting, Mr Rowley said: “These shameful criminals are claiming to be a member of the NHS Test and Protect service, promising to send a home test kit and asking for bank details. It is disgraceful behaviour brazenly taking advantage of vulnerable people during a global pandemic. These scammers should be ashamed of their actions.

“Everyone needs to be aware that COVID-19 tests are free and Test and Protect will never ask for bank details or try to sell anything.

“I strongly encourage anyone with concerns to report them to the expert team at the national consumer advice service, Advise Direct Scotland, on freephone 0808 164 6000 or online and web chat at www.consumeradvice.scot. Anyone who has been the victim of fraud should report it to Police Scotland on 101, or 999 in an emergency".”