Consumers are being warned to be on their guard in the run-up to Easter as widely circulating scam messages tricked consumer sinto handing over personal details.

In recent days, messages directing consumers to a bogus giveaway from Cadbury have circulated widely on social media and in WhatsApp groups, offering hampers of easter chocolate to participants.

The messages directed users to a shortened web address. To claim their prize, winners were asked to register their details and inform a number of friends about the “giveaway”.

However, Cadbury said it was not one of its promotions, and urged consumers not to interact with it or share details.

“We’re aware of circulating posts on social media claiming to offer a free easter chocolate basket,” the company said. “We can confirm this has not been generated by us and we urge consumers not to interact with it or share any data. We’re working with the relevant organisations to ensure this is resolved.”

The scam has appeared in a number of different forms in recent…