Stirling residents are being warned about scam texts and emails relating to coronavirus vaccinations and the booster.
Fake messages have been circulating professing to be from the NHS or the Government asking for personal information to process vaccine test applications.
They usually contain spelling or punctuation mistakes and ask recipients to click on what looks like an NHS or GOV.UK page.
Details of bank accounts are also being sought.
A number of constituents have been in touch with Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Alexander Stewart about the matter.
Mr Stewart said: “These scams are utterly horrific and they display just how low these individuals are stooping to, as they prey on people’s anxieties during a health crisis such as the one we’re all living through currently.
“Letters in blue envelopes are still being sent out regarding the vaccination programme for example, so I implore our residents across Bridge of Allan, Dunblane and right across Stirling to just ignore these fake texts or emails.
“We must make sure that all our family, friends and neighbours, especially the vulnerable or those not used to dealing with electronic communications, are absolutely made aware of what to look out for and are advised never to send any information requested or click on a link.”
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An NHS Forth Valley spokesperson said this week: “Unfortunately, throughout the pandemic there have been a number of scams across the UK linked to Covid-19 testing, contact tracing and vaccination – these have been widely publicised by the Scottish Government, Police Scotland and NHS Scotland Counter Fraud Services, local and national media to help raise awareness over the last year.
“We also have information about scams on the vaccination pages of our website.
“As part of the national vaccination programme people would either receive a vaccination appointment in a blue envelope from NHS Scotland or be encouraged to book an appointment for their Covid-19 booster on the NHS Inform booking portal or via the national vaccination helpline.
“Vaccinations are free and people would never be asked to pay to book an appointment – and the NHS would never ask for, or accept, cash for vaccine, ask for your banking details or identity documents, email you to arrange your coronavirus vaccination, or turn up at your residence unannounced.”
