Council warns residents to beware of fake websites offering masks for sale
Newham council is alerting residents to beware of unknown fake websites and social media posts offering masks for sale, following government advice to cover up on public transport and other places where social distancing is not possible.
The council’s Trading Standards are warning anyone looking to purchase a mask online to be aware of claims of high quality and good safety standards, when some online offers are for cheap quality masks offering little safety standards.
Councillor James Beckles Lead Member for Crime and Community Safety said: “There are plenty of fake offers online offering people opportunities to purchase masks which do not exist. Unfortunately, people pay for them and are robbed of their money. We are encouraging everyone to be extra vigilant at this time. Our advice to everyone is to follow government guidance, use face coverings properly and wash your hands before putting masks on and after taking them off.”
Face coverings are not the same as the surgical masks or respirators used by healthcare and other workers as part of personal protective equipment. These should continue to be reserved for those who need them to protect against risks in their workplace, such as health and care workers, and those in industrial settings, such as those exposed to dust hazards.
Any face coverings should not be used by children under two-years-old or anyone who may find it hard to manage them correctly. This includes unassisted primary age children, or those with respiratory conditions. Face coverings can also be made at home and should cover the mouth and nose. For more information on how to make a face covering, visit the government's website.
The Government has also issued guidance about face masks in relation to enclosed spaces.