EAST Dorset Citizens Advice has issued tips to avoid online scammers during lockdown.

More time is being spent online due to the restrictions in place, and EDCA say there has been a huge increase in online scams.

It urges people to do their research to find out if the person contacting them is from a real organisation.

Ask them for ID and Google the name of the company and ‘scam’ to see what stories come up.

It has also reminded people not to click on unknown links and be suspicious as scams prey on the fact people are currently more vulnerable.

Never give out personal information or money to anyone you don’t trust.

If you have been the victim to a scam you can report it to EDCA online or by phone on 0800 250 5050.