Warning over Covid vaccine scammers

RESIDENTS have been warned to watch out for scammers using the coronavirus vaccination programme as a way to trick people out of their money.

Hampshire County Council and the NHS issued a joint statement urging people to watch out for fraudsters pretending to be officials and asking for a payment.

They said those most at risk of being targeted are the elderly, as well as those who live alone, are self-isolating or are in financial difficulty. Many scammers are using increasingly sophisticated methods to target people.

Cllr Judith Grajewski, HCC cabinet member for public health said: “Sadly, there have been cases reported of dishonest individuals approaching members of the public to offer vaccines in return for payment.

“Therefore, we want to remind everyone that the Covid-19 vaccine is free of charge and that the NHS will get in touch when it is your turn to receive it.

“No one from the NHS would come and knock on your door unannounced and you would not receive emails inviting you to click on links.

“If anyone approaches you in this way, or attempts to force or coerce you into handing over funds – in person or otherwise – always contact the police.”

Cllr Grajewski added: “No one can pay for it and jump the queue. If a private organisation contacts you suggesting they can provide the vaccine, it will be a scam.”

The NHS is currently prioritising people most at risk from the ill effects of coronavirus to receive the vaccine. However, all eligible adults will eventually be offered the vaccine.

Dr Barbara Rushton, of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Partnership of Clinical Commissioning Groups, said: “When it is the right time, you will be contacted to make an appointment.

“Most of us will receive a letter either from our GP or the national booking system, which will include all the information you need. Some services are currently also phoning and texting patients to invite them in.

“We are working as quickly as we can to vaccinate our communities and thank residents for their patience during this huge national undertaking.

“We will be in contact in due course, so there is no need to contact your GP surgery to request the vaccine or check if you will be invited.”

Other coronavirus-related scams include:

• Sales of fake products such as face coverings, supplements, anti-virus kits and sanitisers
• Bogus healthcare workers trying to gain access to homes by claiming to offer testing
• Fake charity workers offering to do shopping or carry out cleaning tasks
• Emails asking for donations to the NHS (spelling and punctuation errors and unusual email sender details are a clue)

Information about the Covid-19 vaccination programme is available on the NHS website. Fraud can be reported to Action Fraud via 0300 123 2040 or www.actionfraud.police.uk