Brits have been asked to remain vigilant following a spate of scam 'coronavirus passports'.
As holiday locations continue to open their airports to the UK and large-scale events are trialled, you may need to apply for an NHS COVID pass to show your vaccination details or test results.
This will be a requirement depending on the venue or country you are entering.
READ MORE: All the places you can walk in and get your vaccine this weekend
But fraudsters, posing as NHS employees, are taking advantage by offering fake passports in exchange for a fee.
Scammers have sent emails with links that redirect you to a fake but convincing ‘NHS’ website that asks you to apply for your ‘ digital coronavirus passport ’ using your personal and payment details.
The NHS will never contact you to ask for payment details to obtain the NHS COVID pass. You can view your double vaccination status freely on the NHS app or apply for an NHS COVID pass free of charge online.
Deepak Dwarakanath, North Tees and Hartlepool trust medical director, said: “For those who have had both of their COVID-19 vaccinations, the NHS COVID Pass is crucial as people begin to look forward to events, holidays and their life after the pandemic.
“It’s a disgrace that people would seek to scam others in this cruel manner by taking advantage of this.
“If you have had both of your vaccinations and need a pass, please obtain it using NHS channels. The NHS COVID pass is free to anyone who needs one and will remain free while it is a necessity for travel.”
Although the website has since been taken down, fraudsters can very quickly set up alternative sites, email addresses and phone numbers.
The NHS COVID pass is free proof of your vaccination status that you can request or view on the national NHS website, the NHS app or by calling the NHS on 119.
If you do receive an email asking for payment details to apply for your NHS COVID pass, please do not click any links, do not input any personal or bank details and delete the email immediately.
Alternatively, you can report any scam or phishing emails to report@phishing.gov.uk.
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