Criminals are using the COVID-19 vaccine as a way to target the public by tricking them to hand over cash or financial details.
They are sending convincing-looking text messages letting people know they are eligible for the vaccine or phoning people directly pretending to be from the NHS, or local pharmacy.
BE ALERT TO THESE SCAMS AND ALWAYS THINK – IS THIS FAKE?
Below are the top four vaccine scams to look out for:
These are two examples of fake contacts:
What to do if you suspect fraud:
If you receive a call you believe to be fraudulent, hang up. If you are suspicious about an email you have received, forward it to report@phishing.gov.uk.
Suspicious text messages should be forwarded to the number 7726 which is free of charge.
If you believe you have been the victim of fraud or identity theft, you should report this directly to Action Fraud either online; actionfraud.police.uk or via phone 0300 123 2040.
If you have any information relating to vaccine fraud you can stay 100%
anonymous by contacting Crimestoppers COVID Fraud Hotline online;
covidfraudhotline.org or phone 0800 587 5030.
