COVID-19 vaccination phishing SMS text message
We are aware that some people are receiving suspicious calls and text messages offering the COVID-19 vaccination.
A recent phishing SMS Text Message trend is targeting patients across Birmingham. Individuals are receiving text messages claiming to be from the NHS advising that they are eligible to apply for a vaccine.
Recipients of this text are asked to click on a suspicious link to view more information and to apply, where they are then redirected to a website. Individuals are asked to prove ownership of address and are required to pass over their banking details (sort code, account number and long card number).
To protect yourself, your family members and patients from fraud and criminals, please remember the following points:
• The vaccine is only available on the NHS for free to people in priority groups,
and the NHS will contact you when it is your turn. Anyone offering a paid-for
vaccine is committing a crime.
• The NHS will never ask you to press a button on your keypad or send a text to
confirm you want the vaccine, and never ask for payment or for your bank
details.
• At the moment we are also not making house calls to deliver or discuss the
vaccine. Anyone offering this now is committing a crime.
In order to receive a vaccination, patients need to be registered with a GP surgery in
England and will need access to their NHS Number, the safest and secure way to
access your NHS number is through the NHS App.
The NHS App, owned and run by the NHS is the most simple and secure way to
safely access a range of NHS services and is only available;
• To download on your smartphone or tablet device via the Apple Store or
Google Play
• Or you can access NHS App services from the browser on your desktop or
laptop computer via the secure NHS Login website
https://www.nhsapp.service.nhs.uk/login
If you receive a call or text 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, and particularly if you are
worried that someone has or might come to your house, report it to the Police online
or by calling 101.
