Preventing Cyber Crime & Fraud: COVID-19 vaccination phishing SMS

To protect yourself and those close to you:

Keep abreast of the news: As awful as it may seem, knowledge of attack methods and techniques will hone the ability to separate fact from fiction.

Never click links within emails or text messages: Links take you to fake websites.

Never call back using an unrecognised SMS phone number: This could lead you to speaking directly with a criminal or criminal organisation.

Use official channels: For example, use GOV.UK to find relevant information about COVID support and support services. Once the official communication channels are known you can verify information and find out what the next steps are.

Guard your data: A legitimate organisation won’t make unsolicited requests for sensitive information or payments. For example, the vaccine is only available on the NHS for free to people in priority groups. Use the official NHS app only available from Google Play or Apple Store for more.

Don’t give into pressure: If someone tries to coerce you into giving them sensitive information, end the conversation.

Watch your digital footprint. Cyber criminals will use social media accounts and relevant websites to research you and make their scams more effective. Request the removal of unnecessary information and check your privacy settings for every account.