TWO in five residents have been targeted by scammers during the coronavirus lockdown, a charity has revealed.

Citizens Advice for Braintree and Witham is urging residents to be vigilant about an apparent increase in scams.

Research undertaken by the charity shows 42 per cent of people in the east of England have been contacted by scammers since March.

The data also shows nearly 70 per cent of people are worried about being victims of scams.

Citizens Advice says residents must be wary of potential scams and look out for vulnerable people who may be singled out.

Rachel Fahie, Chief Officer of the Braintree branch of the charity said: "Our data shows that the last few months have been very difficult for a lot of people across the South East of England.

"Despite this, we’ve seen appalling evidence of opportunistic scammers taking advantage of people’s worries and concerns.

"Two in five of Braintree, Halstead and Witham residents have been targeted by a scam since lockdown began, showing we all need to be on high alert."

He added: "It’s really important we all do our bit and report anything that looks like a con when we see it.

"By learning how scammers operate and helping each other understand what to look out for, we can all work together to stop fraudsters in their tracks."

Citizens Advice has advised those fearful of being targeted by scammers should install call blockers on their telephones.

Anyone concerned they may have been a victim should contact their bank and check for suspicious activity.

Further advice and tips are available on Citizens Advice's website.

Contact the charity on 0344 499 4719.