I normally leave all scam alerts with Karl for his excellent and informative Friday slot, but the NEL Fraud Forum and Humberside Police have asked me to put this up asap , so here goes !
COVID 19 Vaccine Scam Text
We have been informed about a new scam that is being circulated, but looks very believable. It starts with a text, seemingly from the NHS saying that you are now eligible to apply for the new vaccine and to click on the link to apply.
The link takes you to a website, which looks genuine and asks the user to complete a form asking for the following information.
- Name
- Date of Birth
- Address
- Payment card details
- Proof of address
As you can see from the above, this should automatically ring alarm bells, as we all know, the vaccine is FREE.
Please follow this advice:
- Do NOT click on links in unknown texts – always check it first
- NEVER give out your personal details.
- With the recent approval of multiple vaccines in the UK, these types of scam attempts are likely to continue as fraudsters look to take advantage of the rollout.
- Cold calls regarding the vaccine are also beginning to take place.
If you, or anyone you know, have been affected by this fraud or any other scam, report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 1232040 or visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk.