Be aware of Covid pass fraud

21 September 2021

Fraudsters are using the NHS Covid pass as a way to target the public by convincing them to hand over money, financial details and personal information. A new campaign is asking members of the public to be aware of Covid pass fraud.

Colleagues from the NHSX, NCSC, Action Fraud and the Cabinet Office have organised a media campaign to raise awareness.

Members of the public have received text messages, emails and phone calls from fraudsters pretending to be from the NHS. The fraud involves asking for payment or financial information to receive a vaccine certificate. People have also been targeted through social media.

This can be known as phishing – where cybercriminals send a fake message in order to gain money or information. Anyone can be the target of phishing. Beware of any messages that don’t look right, and remember the common warning signs:

• Poor spelling/grammar
• Suspicious tone
• Sense of urgency
• Poorly branded communications
• Spoofed emails

The Covid pass and the NHS App are free. The NHS will never ask for payment or any financial details.

Concerns about fraud affecting the public sector? Contact our fraud team