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10:18 05/01/2021
A fake NHS text message has recently been circulating, informing people that they’re eligible to apply for the COVID-19 vaccine.
The scam message reads “we have identified that your are eligible to apply for your vaccine” and then prompts you to click on a link for further information or to ‘apply’ for the vaccine.
This URL takes you to an extremely convincing fake NHS website, where fraudsters are attempting to coerce people into divulging personal or financial information.
If you receive a text or email that asks you to click on a link or for you to provide information, such as your name, credit card or bank details, it's a scam.
Any text message containing a link should be treated with caution. The best way to find information from GOV.UK, or any other agency, is to visit that particular website via a trusted source (such as through Google or Bing) and do not click on links in unsolicited texts or emails.
Cold calls regarding the vaccine are also beginning to take place, where scammers are asking people to pay for the vaccine over the phone. If you receive one of these calls, hang up.
Scams can come in many forms and is an incredibly sophisticated crime, making it more difficult to distinguish genuine messages from the fake.
We all make mistakes and these days the scams can be incredibly convincing. If you think you, or someone you know has been a victim of online fraud:
If you need to seek further advice you can contact us via one of the following methods:
Please share this warning with friends and family so we can prevent anyone from falling victim.