Falkirk residents warned of 'despicable' coronavirus vaccine scam

Martyn Day, Linlithgow and East Falkirk MP, is urging members of the public to be vigilant in light of fraudsters asking victims for bank details or cash payments in exchange for a fake or non-existent vaccine.

The SNP representative is encouraging his constituents to follow official advice on the NHS vaccination programme.

Mr Day said: “I am sad to say that throughout the pandemic we have seen fraudsters adapt their methods to take advantage of Covid support schemes and exploit the fears of people when they feel at their most anxious.

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“This latest scam, which plays on people’s hopes for a vaccine, is one of the most callous and despicable so far.

“I want to arm everyone with the knowledge that NHS Scotland will never ask for cash or financial details to pay for the vaccine or verify a patient’s identity, arrive unannounced at a home address to administer the vaccine or demand proof of identity by asking people to send copies of personal documents.

“Nor will NHS Scotland contact people via email regarding vaccination appointments; NHS Scotland is contacting eligible people by phone or letter to arrange vaccinations.

“Covid vaccines are only available through the NHS. Vaccines are free to all in Scotland and at no point should anyone be asked to pay for one.”

To find out more information about current scams and the best ways to report fake messages, visit the Trading Standards Scotland website.

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