Scammers are sending text messages claiming to be from the Government informing people they have been awarded hundreds of pounds thanks to Covid-19.

But the text messages contain a link which will take you to a site where you will be asked to hand over bank details and other personal information.

West Lancashire Council shared a warning tweet with a screengrab of a message one person had received. It reads: “COVID: The UK-GOV has issued a payment of £349.76 to all residents as part of its promise to battle COVID-19.”

It then advises recipients to follow a link in order to apply for the bogus grant, reports The Echo.

Guidance on the Citizens Advice website warns people to be vigilant while the coronavirus pandemic continues, with a number of scams doing the rounds.

Citizens Advice say you should particularly look out for:

• advertising for face masks or medical equipment at high prices
• emails or texts pretending to be from the government
• emails offering life insurance against coronavirus
• people knocking at your door and asking for money for charity

If you see emails or texts about coronavirus from someone you don’t know, or from an unusual email address, don’t click on any links or buy anything.

Don’t give money or personal details to anyone you don’t know or trust – for example someone who knocks on the door and offers to help.