Covid-19 vaccine fraud warning

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.

The NHS will: NEVER ask for payment - the vaccine is free NEVER ask for your bank details NEVER arrive unannounced at your home to administer the vaccine NEVER ask you to prove your identity by sending copies of personal documents such as your passport

LIKE OTHER SCAMS, THE SAME ADVICE APPLIES: 1 Challenge - Could it be fake? It’s ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests that don’t feel right. Check GOV.UK to ensure it’s genuine. 2 Do not respond to text messages that try to get you to send money, or important personal information such as bank details or passwords. 3 Use official government websites and refer to ‘Contact Us’ sections of websites to access information and service. 4 Challenge unannounced callers to your home, NHS visits if necessary will be agreed with you directly or via carers, they will never turn up unannounced.

FURTHER GUIDANCE AND SUPPORT

The Cabinet Office has formed a COVID-19 Fraud Response Team to assist the government with its counter fraud response. Requests for assistance should be emailed to:

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 . 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.

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