Warnings over Covid-19 vaccine scam
Health chiefs have warned con men are scamming money from gullible residents desperate to be vaccinated.
The NHS in south west London is warning people to be on their guard for scams linked to the coronavirus vaccine that aim to get their financial details and steal money.
It follows reports that some people are receiving suspicious calls and text messages offering the Covid-19 vaccination.
Dr Nicola Jones, local GP and GP lead for the roll-out of the vaccine in south west London, said: “Opportunistic scammers and fraudsters will be looking to take advantage of the roll-out.
“Coronavirus vaccines are only available on the NHS. Remember, the vaccine is free of charge – at no point will you be asked to pay. When it is the right time, you will be contacted by the NHS, your employer, or a GP surgery local to you to receive your vaccine.”
The NHS will never:
- Ask you for your bank account or card details
- Ask you for your PIN or banking password
- Arrive unannounced at your home to administer the vaccine
- Ask you to prove your identity by sending copies of personal documents such as your passport, driving licence, bills or pay slips.
No entry will be granted to any vaccination site without an appointment and people are urged not to call their GP to get an appointment, everyone should wait until they are contacted by the NHS.
Anyone who has concerns about whether an approach is genuine should speak to their local GP surgery.
If you believe you have been the victim of fraud or identity theft you should report this directly to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.
If you are worried that someone has or might come to your house, call 101.
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