Be Alert for Covid-19 vaccination scam

Healthwatch Brighton & Hove has shared a statement on behalf of Sussex NHS Commissioners to alert people to a Covid-19 vaccination scam.

We are aware that some people are receiving fraudulent calls and text messages offering the COVID-19 vaccination. In some cases, people are asked to press a number on their keypad or to send a text message to confirm they wish to receive the vaccine. Doing so is likely to result in a charge being applied to their phone bill. In other cases, callers are offering the vaccine for a fee or asking for bank details.

People are warned to be alert to these scams.

The vaccine is only available from the NHS and the NHS will contact you when it is your turn. At present, appointments are only being offered to the public over 80 years old.

The NHS will:

NEVER ask you to press a button on your keypad or send a text to confirm you want the vaccine.
NEVER ask for payment or for your bank details.

If you receive a call you believe to be fraudulent, hang up.

If you believe you have been the victim of fraud or identity theft you should report this directly to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040. Where the victim is vulnerable, report it to Sussex Police online or by calling 101.

For more information about the COVID-19 vaccination, please visit the Healthwatch Brighton and Hove website by clicking here.