People across Scotland continue to receive scam text messages related to Covid testing.
One message says you have come into contact with someone who has tested positive for the Omicron variant and asks you to click on a link to order a test kit.
The link in the messages leads to a cloned NHS website which asks you to enter your personal details and to pay a small ‘postage charge’ (usually between £1-£2).
A similar incident in Scotland occurred, the victim was then contacted by who they thought was their bank and asked to move money to a ‘safe place’ whilst fraud was investigated. This was in fact a secondary scam.
How to Avoid
NHS Scotland does not currently charge for Covid tests and will NEVER ask for a payment or bank details.
The NHS will not tell you that you have a limited time frame in which to apply for a Covid document or to take a Covid test.
Find out more
• NHS Inform – information about testing: https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/coronavirus-covid-19/test-and-protect/coronavirus-covid-19-testing/ or call the free COVID-19 helpline on 0800 028 2816.
• Scottish Government: www.gov.scot/coronavirus-covid-19
• Information about Covid scams: www.tsscot.co.uk/coronavirus-scams
• Article by Which? about scams related to the Omicron variant: http://conversation.which.co.uk/…/omicron-variant-pcr