Don’t be caught out by vaccine‘appointments’
Cruel scammers are targeting the public using fake coronavirus vaccine appointments.
Bosses at NHS Ayrshire & Arran have warned against the con trick that has seen messages sent via email and text message.
The fraudulent messages contain content that suggests an individual is eligible to apply for the vaccine and require a link to be clicked.
Clicking on the link will then require the entry of personal details and may even ask for payment.
The public has been urged NOT to click on the links or call or send a message to any of the numbers.
They should ignore the message and delete it.
John Burns, NHS Ayrshire & Arran chief executive, said:“The Covid-19 vaccine is
delivered by the NHS, and you will receive a letter with your appointment details when it is your turn to be vaccinated.
“The rollout of the vaccine provides reason to be hopeful and we know that receiving a text, email or call about it may seem exciting, but we must make sure we don’t get complacent when it comes to scams.
“Everyone must remain vigilant and tell family and friends what to look out for to help avoid them being scammed.”
Chief Superintendent Faroque Hussain, divisional commander for Ayrshire, added: ”If you are concerned you have provided personal or financial information via a link in a message of this sort, contact Police Scotland via 101.
“We will pursue anyone who sets out to cause harm and misery to our communities and our officers work closely with partners to make Scotland a hostile environment for scammers.
“Be aware an unsolicited telephone call, email or text message may not be from the person or organisation it appears to be from.
“Never click on a link in a message you’re not expecting, and remember the NHS will never ask you for money relating to the Covid-19 pandemic.”