Covid vacccination scams

Be aware of scams

Fake emails are being circulated with the subject line “Book an appointment using the NHS e-Referral Service – NHSVaccination”, with the main body of the email saying: “You are required to reply to this invitation within 12 hours of this notification”. It initially looks authentic as it comes from nhs.gov.uk, but this is not a legitimate website and is just a combination of genuine website gov.uk and nhs.uk.

This email is a scam and should be deleted immediately. Similarly, the BBC is reporting an email scam which includes a link to register for the vaccine and asks for your bank details, either to verify identification or to make a payment. This fake email looks like it has come from NHS Test and Trace. Remember, the NHS will never ask for your bank details.

A warning has been shared regarding fraudulent text messages being sent to the public informing them that they are eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine. The link in the text takes you to a bogus website and asks you for banking details.

A GP practice has reported that a patient arrived at a centre offering COVID-19 vaccinations. The patient spoke to a man who took him inside and apparently injected a vaccine, although the patient didn’t feel any injection on his arm and there was no visible mark. The patient paid for the vaccine and then left without any further information being provided. Days later the building was cleared and the vaccination sign had been removed.

How to protect yourself from these scams:

Stop and think before replying or clicking a link

Never give out personal or financial details in response to emails, texts or phonecalls.

Remember, you will never be asked to pay for your COVID-19 vaccination.

Only attend an NHS approved vaccination centre.

Help protect family, friends and colleagues by making them aware of these scams.