Shops are closing. Newspaper sales are falling. But we’ve chosen to keep our coverage of the Coronavirus crisis free because it’s so important that the people of Glasgow stay informed during this difficult time.

To help us get through this, we’re asking readers who can afford it to contribute either £3, £5 or £8 a month to the Glasgow Times.

If you choose to sign up, we’ll also take away all the adverts – and deliver a digital version of the print paper to your device. Click here to help Save Your Times: www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/subscribe

Coronavirus con-artists are using fear of the pandemic to scam vulnerable people out of their cash.

Police say fruadsters are setting up fake websites selling products and offering 'cures' or testing kits for COVID-19.

Scammers have also been setting up bogus websites asking for donations for victims or promoting awareness and prevention tips.

Police chiefs also say the fraudsters are using emails, texts, telephone calls and WhatsApp messages offering advice and treatment for the deadly bug.

Cold callers have also been contacting organisations suggesting they must have specific measures in place by a certain deadline. 

READ MORE: Coronavirus in Scotland LIVE: Death tolls rises to 47 | SEC hospital plans | 1500+ cases

The force have now issued a further guide to help the public protect themselves from fraudsters.

It reads: 

"Be vigilant and on guard if someone turns up unexpectedly

"Identity cards can be faked – phone the company to verify their identity

"Never let people try to persuade you to let them into your home even if they are asking for or offering help – they may not be genuine.

"If someone is persistent, ask them to call at another time and arrange for a friend or family member to be with you."

The advice adds: "Don’t feel embarrassed - genuine callers expect you to be careful.

"Never provide any personal data such as your full name, address and date of birth – scammers can use this information to steal your identity.

"Don’t keep large amounts of money in your home.

"If in doubt, don’t answer the door."

READ MORE: Glasgow care home denies deceiving staff about positive coronavirus patient

The force say that any legitimate trader or helper would be happy to return at a later date - so don't feel pressured into making a decision on the spot.

When online, never click on any attachments or links unless you are 100% sure where it came from - and always be sceptical if you receive an email, text or online message about coronavirus.

The force adds: "Don’t allow yourself to be pressured into donating money, and never make donations by cash or gift card, or send money through transfer agents such as Western Union or Moneygram".

More details and advice can be found on the Police Scotland website here.