Preston and South Ribble residents are being warned about scams relating to the Covid-19 vaccine.
AdvertisementLancashire Police’s fraud and cyber crime unit has issued a warning about scam texts and emails.
Phishing attempts by con artists include text messages and emails claiming you’ve been identified to receive the Covid vaccine.
Many feature NHS branding and logos or pretend to come from official email addresses.
The police’s fraud and cyber unit said: “With the roll out of the Covid-19 vaccine now a national priority, phishing and vishing scams are inevitable.
“The vaccine is free and the NHS will never ask you to pay for the vaccine by entering long card numbers or bank details.”
See where the Covid-19 vaccine is being rolled out near you
Action Fraud, the national reporting centre for fraud and cyber crime, say they’ve already received 57 reports in relation to the Covid-19 vaccine.
Head of Action Fraud, Pauline Smith, said: “The vaccine is a crucial tool in fighting the coronavirus and keeping people safe. Thankfully, the number of reports into Action Fraud are relatively low but we have seen an increase in the last two months, particularly around scam text messages.
“Remember, the vaccine is only available on the NHS and is free of charge. The NHS will never ask you for details about your bank account or to pay for the vaccine. If you receive an email, text message or phone call purporting to be from the NHS and you are asked to provide financial details, this is a scam.”
Anyone can report a potential scam to report@phishing.gov.uk and send suspicious text messages to 7726 which is free to send to.
Anyone who believes they are the victim of fraud can report this to Action Fraud by calling 03001232040 or visiting the Action Fraud website.
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