'Delete immediately': Scam text targeting isolating families whose kids have free school dinners
Families with children eligible for free school dinners have been warned about a scam email asking them to hand over their bank details to get support.
The Government said it was aware the email had been sent to some parents and anyone who receives it should not respond and delete it immediately.
In recent days, multiple agencies have warned that criminals are using the coronavirus crisis to scam people out of money and personal information.
A tweet from the Department for Education (DfE) said it has "been informed some parents have received an email stating: 'As schools will be closing, if you're entitled to free school meals, please send your bank details and we'll make sure you're supported'".
The tweet warns parents: "This is a scam email - do not respond, and delete immediately."
It was announced last week that children entitled to free school dinners will be given vouchers or meals during the outbreak.
Schools will be able to provide meals directly, or order vouchers directly from local supermarkets and shops to be emailed, or printed and posted to families, with costs covered by the DfE.
There are around 1.3 million children entitled to free school meals.
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