Vaccine scam

Monklands residents are being urgent to be vigilant to a scam in which fraudsters are issuing fake invitations to have the Covid vaccination.

NHS Scotland Counter Fraud Services say the scam email includes a link to register for the vaccine – but no registration for the real vaccination is required.

The fake site asks for bank details to verify identification or make a payment.

As the coronavirus vaccination continues to be rolled out across Scotland, the Counter Fraud Services has seen a spike in associated scams, including asking people to pay to book their vaccinations.

It says it’s vitally important that the public know that the NHS will never: ask for, or accept, cash for vaccines; request banking details or identity documents; email to arrange your coronavirus vaccination; or turn up at your home unannounced.

Anyone who receives a concerning email can forward it to report@ phishing.gov.uk and also report it to Crimestoppers’ dedicated Covid-19 fraud team at https://forms. theiline.co.uk /crimestoppers covidfraudhotline

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has announced self assessment customers in Monklands will not receive a penalty for their late online tax return if they file by February 28.

Anyone who couldn’t file their return by the Janaury 31 deadline won’t get a late filing penalty if they complete it by the end of this month.

Customers can pay online, via their bank, or by post before they file; more information on how to pay is available at GOV.UK.

HMRC chief executive Jim Harra said: “We recognised the immense pressure that many people are facing in these unprecedented times.

“Not charging late filing penalties for late online tax returns submitted in February will give them the breathing space they need to complete and file their returns, without worrying about receiving a penalty.

“We can reasonably assume most of these people will have a valid reason for filing late, caused by the pandemic.”