In recent days, a new scam has been circulating across the UK as scammers yet again try to fool the public into handing over their personal details.
The NHS confirmed that this is indeed a scam and that there are several red flags you need to look out for.
Firstly, the message comes from a mobile number and secondly, there is an error within the message itself.
The domain website Who.is states the site was created just days ago on January 29 2022.
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It reads: "NHS: You've have been in close contact with a person who has omicron. Please order a Test Kit" followed by a link.
The URL contains the words "NHS", "omicron" and "pcr" which may at first seem legitimate, however if you are really a close contact, the NHS or Government would urge you to visit the Gov.uk website should you need to order a kit.
And remember - the NHS and the Government will never ask you for personal information such as your bank details.
According to the National Cyber Security Centre, there are four steps you should do to determine whether it could be a scam.
The four steps include:
- Could it be fake? It's ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests that don’t feel right. Check GOV.UK to ensure it’s genuine
Be wary of text messages that try to get you to send money, or important personal information such as bank details or passwords
Take a moment to stop and think before parting with information to keep you safe or your money
Use official government websites and refer to ‘Contact Us’ sections of websites to access information and services
If you receive a call and suspect it to be fraudulent, hang up. If you are suspicious about an email, forward it to report@phishing.gov.uk. If you are suspicious about a text message, forward it to the number 7726, which is free-of-charge.
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If you believe you are the victim of a fraud, please report this to Action Fraud as soon as possible by visiting actionfraud.police.uk or calling 0300 123 2040.
A Scottish Government spokesperson told Edinburgh Live: “We understand that people are alert to the risks of potential text scams and measures are already in place to reassure people when they’re contacted.
“Test and Protect may send a text message or email, but any links would only be to online guidance and support.
“Contact tracers do not ask for information other than your movements and the people you have been in contact with. Other details such as bank or credit cards will never be requested.
“Any suspected fraudulent messages should be reported to Police Scotland on 101.”
