Action Fraud has issued a warning about scam text messages pretending to be from the NHS which have swindled Brits out of more than half a million pounds in two months.
The UK's cyber crime reporting service is urging people to watch out for the messages and be wary of texts asking for personal or financial information.
Action Fraud says 412 people have been victims to the scams since January 1. In total, they have lost more than £531,000 - an average of nearly £1,300 each.
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An example of the texts reads as follows: "NHS-UK ALERT! You were recently around a confirmed Omicron case. Urgently manage your vaccine or order a testing kit here."
The text contains a hyperlink, which Action Fraud says to be wary of.
Action Fraud says "Be aware of requests for personal information in messages claiming to be from the NHS.
"Be alert to links or attachments in unexpected messages claiming to be from the NHS.
"Do not respond to requests for money, bank details or passwords.
"The NHS will NEVER ask for payment or any financial details.
"If you are suspicious about an email, forward it to report@phishing.gov.uk
"If you are suspicious about a text message, forward it to 7726 (number), free of charge."
You can report suspected cyber fraud here: https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/reporting-fraud-and-cyber-crime
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