Police issue warning to Droitwich residents over fake NHS vaccine scam texts and calls - The Droitwich Standard

Police issue warning to Droitwich residents over fake NHS vaccine scam texts and calls

Droitwich Editorial 7th Jan, 2021 Updated: 7th Jan, 2021   0

A WARNING has been issued to residents about a fake text message claiming to be from the NHS and telling people they are eligible to apply for a Covid vaccine.

The link takes recipients to a fake NHS website and asks for payment and other personal details.

People should be aware that the NHS will never ask for payment for the vaccine and should not respond to the text message or click on any links.

Suspicious text messages should be forwarded to 7726 – the free-of-charge short code enables mobile operators to investigate where the text has come from and take action if it is found to be malicious.




There have also been reports of phone calls targeting vulnerable and elderly people, playing a recorded message, telling them they have now qualified for the vaccine.

Victims are then asked to press a number to arrange their booking.


In both instances, victims are then asked for personal information, financial details and payment to receive the vaccine.

Police urge everyone to be wary and to take five minutes to consider if the communication is legitimate if contacted by anyone asking for payment for the vaccine.

The NHS does not charge for the vaccine and any calls, texts or emails such as this should be treated as a scam.

Anyone who has received these emails or texts should forward them directly to the NCSC at [email protected]

We are urging everyone who reads this to share with older and vulnerable friends and family.

Anyone who has been a victim of fraud can also contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or visit the website at actionfraud.police.uk

And people are being urged to share this message with family and friends to prevent as many people as possible from falling victim to the scam.

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