We have received the following information from NE Locality Health & Wellbeing Team:
“We’ve been made aware that fraudsters are sending out fake text messages offering a COVID-19 vaccine in an attempt to steal personal and financial information.
The text offers a link to an extremely convincing fake NHS website where people are asked to input their bank details to register for a vaccine. The scam message reads “We have identified that you are eligible to apply for your vaccine” and then prompts you to click on a link for further information or to ‘apply’ for the vaccine.
Cold callers are also asking people to pay for the vaccine over the phone.
Please remember that there’s no charge for the vaccine.
Major organisations like The Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership will NEVER send unsolicited emails or texts asking for banking details. If you receive a text or email that asks you to click on a link or for you to provide information, such as your name, credit card or bank details, it’s a scam. You should never give out personal details to organisations or people before verifying their credentials first, even if the message appears to be genuine.”