Covid-19 Government Grant text scam

Be wary of Covid scam text message, says HMRC

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC)* has shared a warning from HMRC about scam text messages concerning fake government grants – further information can be found here.

These scam messages include a link to a fraudulent Gov.uk website (which can be spotted by spelling and grammar mistakes that mark it out as fake).

If you do receive a related text, it is best to avoid clicking on any links, and always be extra vigilant in giving out any personal information unless viewing a website you know you can trust.

You and your colleagues may have searched or even applied for tax relief while working from home. If you are looking for information about this scheme, make sure to visit the Government’s official website directly.

Action Fraud is raising awareness of another coronavirus vaccine scam, after it received a high volume of reports relating to a phishing email on Monday 25th January.

The email appears to come from the NHS and asks the recipient to click on a link to accept or decline an invitation to receive the coronavirus vaccine. If they click accept, they are asked to input personal information and their bank card details.

In the UK, coronavirus vaccines will only be available via the National Health Services of England, Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland. You can be contacted by the NHS, your employer, a GP surgery or pharmacy local to you, to receive your vaccine. Remember, the vaccine is free of charge. At no point will you be asked to pay.

If you receive a call you believe to be fraudulent, hang up. If you are suspicious about an email you have received, forward it to report@phishing.gov.uk. Suspicious text messages should be forwarded to the number 7726, which is free of charge.

If you believe you are the victim of a fraud, please report this to Action Fraud as soon as possible by calling 0300 123 2040 or visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk