Coronavirus in Scotland: Warnings come as vaccine scams continue to increase

Police Scotland has warned the public to be vigilant about fake invitations to have the coronavirus vaccination as NHS Scotland Counter Fraud Services record a spike in vaccine scams.

A scam covid vaccine email received by a member of the public.

Police Scotland is asking the public to ‘be alert’ and ‘aware’ of covid vaccine scams which are currently circulating across Scotland via text, phone call and email.

The fraudulent messages suggest people are eligible for the coronavirus vaccine and in some cases ask for payment.

The vaccine scam email – which pretends to come from the NHS – 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 either to verify identification or to make a payment.

NHS Scotland has commented that it is important for the public to know that the NHS will never ask for, or accept, cash for vaccines, ask for your banking details or identity documents, email you to arrange your covid vaccination or turn up at your residence unannounced.

Chief Inspector Anton Stephenson, of Police Scotland's Safer Communities Division, said: "We are asking the public to be alert to potential scam messages connected with coronavirus vaccines.

"We are asking people to be aware that unsolicited email, text messages and calls may not be from the person or organisation which they appear to be from.

"I would a urge anyone who is concerned that they have provided personal or financial information via a link in a message of this sort to contact Police Scotland on 101.

“If you receive any communications relating to vaccines that you are in anyway concerned about please contact your GP who will be able to confirm your status regarding a vaccine and do not give out any personal details or payment information."

Police Scotland recently launched their The Take Five to Prevent Fraud campaign which highlights ways people can protect themselves and remain vigilant to this kind of crime with information available on the Police Scotland website.

The news comes as Trading Standards Scotland issued a warning to the public last week after recording almost 60 reports of vaccine scam emails or texts in Scotland.

As vaccination distribution continues throughout Scotland, NHS Scotland Counter Fraud Services have seen a spike in associated scams, including asking people to pay to book their vaccinations.

Gordon Young, Head of Counter Fraud Services said “During the COVID-19 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.”

If you receive an email like this, you can forward it to [email protected] and also report to Crimestoppers dedicated COVID fraud team.

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