As the Covid-19 vaccination roll-out is underway, people are using this as an excuse to phish innocent people across Preston and beyond.

Lancashire Police’s fraud and cyber crime unit recently issued a warning about scam texts and emails.

Read more: Police issue warning to Preston and Lancashire residents about Covid-19 vaccine scam text 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.

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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