Avoid vaccine scams

The new vaccines for Covid-19 offer hope to us all but it's also an opportunity for scammers.

Published: 08/01/2021

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The police have reported that fraudulent calls and text messages are being sent out offering the Covid-19 vaccination. When this happens, you may be asked to press a number on your keypad or to send a text message to confirm that you wish to receive the vaccine. Doing so is likely to result in a charge being applied to your phone bill.

In other cases, you’ll be offered the vaccine for a fee and will be asked for bank details.

The vaccine is only available from the NHS and they will contact you when it's your turn. They will never ask you to press a button on your keypad or send a text asking you to confirm that you want the vaccine. Importantly, they will never ask for payment for the vaccine or for your bank details.

Please stay vigilant. If you believe you have been the victim of this or any other fraud or identity theft, you should report it straight away to Action Fraud either online: www.actionfraud.police.uk or via phone on 0300 123 2040.