SCAMMERS tried to take advantage of the Government's bulk coronavirus text in an attempt to trick people into handing over cash.

Swindon Borough Council warned of the fake texts telling recipients that the UK Government wanted to give them a £458.

The council tweeted: "We've seen a number of people mentioning a scam text circulating stating residents are entitled to a 'coronavirus payment'. This is a scam."

Last week, Chartered Standards chief executive Leon Livermore said: "It is abhorrent that unscrupulous individuals are using this difficult time as an opportunity to immiserate others further. Consumers should now be extra vigilant, and aware of these new scams that take many forms. The general rule of scams applies - if it seems too good to be true, then it probably is."