Beware of fake coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination scam

NHSScotland Counter Fraud Services has warned the public to be vigilant after scammers sent fake invitations to have the coronavirus vaccination.

The scam email includes a link to register for the vaccine, but no registration for the real vaccination is required. The fake site also asks for bank details to either verify identification or make a payment.

Scams during the pandemic

Gordon Young, Head of Counter Fraud Services, said: “During the coronavirus pandemic, NHSScotland has been under increasing pressure and this includes the NHS and its staff being the target of new frauds.

“These frauds are also aimed at members of the public. It is totally unacceptable that at a time of a national health crisis, unscrupulous individuals would attempt to take advantage of the health service and the public.”

What you need to know

As the coronavirus vaccination is being rolled out across Scotland, NHSScotland Counter Fraud Services has seen a spike in associated scams.

This has included asking people to pay to book their vaccinations. So it’s vitally important that members of the public know the NHS will never:

• ask for, or accept, cash for vaccines
• ask for your banking details or identity documents
• email you to arrange your coronavirus vaccination
• turn up at your residence unannounced

Report coronavirus scams

If you receive an email like this, forward it to report@phishing.gov.uk or report it to the Crimestoppers coronavirus fraud hotline.