Sick scammers are now using fake Covid test results to target vulnerable people with realistic-looking texts pretending to be from the HSE.
Gardai have taken numerous reports of a scam message which claims to the recipient that they are the close contact of a person with Covid-19. It then directs them to a link to 'purchase' a mandatory testing kit.
The HSE says it doesn’t charge for Covid-19 related services, this includes testing, and texts indicating otherwise should be ignored.
Gardai say that anyone who is concerned or suspicious of a message they receive, can contact HSELive on 1800 700 700 or your own local GP.
HSE advice on scam messages:
- Never disclose private information over phone or via text message.
- Do not give out your PPS Number to anyone who makes unsolicited contact with you whether by phone or email.
- Never give away personal data or disclose who you may live with or if you live alone.
- The HSE will never request payment for a Covid test or vaccine.
- If you receive such a call, just hang up.
- Anyone who mistakenly provides personal information in response to a scam should contact report the matter to their local Garda Station.
Meanwhile, parents are being warned of a common Whatsapp scam that is catching people out as fraudsters impersonate people’s kids and loved ones for financial gain.
Scams occurring on the messaging app are becoming more and more common, as a UK expert emphasises the importance of being vigilant in a post-pandemic world.
According to an analysis by Lloyds Bank, criminals have increasingly turned to WhatsApp as an approach to fleece their victims, and by their stats, twice the number of cases have been reported each month so far this year compared to 2021.
READ NEXT:
- Budget 2023 just a week away - Here's what to expect from energy credits, social welfare increases and lump sum payments
- Shocking scenes in Dublin as gardai 'rammed' twice before cars left to burn in local park
- Couple come home from Garth Brooks concert with newborn after superstar 'brought on labour'
- RTE Joe Duffy listeners disgusted as 'dine and dash' leaves waitress to pay bill at Irish restaurant
- Ireland weather: Met Eireann forecasts sunshine and 20C heat before major change
