In case you don't know yet, at least 3 COVID-19 vaccines have already been approved in the UK - the vaccines developed by Pfizer-BioNTech, Oxford-AstraZeneca, and Moderna. And if you're wondering when you're going to get it, here's the list of the nine high-priority groups that will receive the vaccine:
- Residents in care homes for older adults and their carers
- 80-year-olds and over and frontline health and social care workers
- 75-year-olds and over
- 70-year-olds and over and clinically extremely vulnerable individuals
- 65-year-olds and over
- 16- to 64-year-olds with serious underlying health conditions
- 60-year-olds and over
- 55-year-olds and over
- 50-year-olds and over
Today, the COVID-19 vaccination has already begun for over-70s as well as those who are clinically extremely vulnerable in England. Along with this, the UK also already closed its travel borders until February 15th to protect its people against the unidentified new strain of the virus.
While the vaccination is considered as a "significant milestone" for the nation, the government is also concerned about the emerging COVID-19 vaccination related scams.
What is the COVID-19 vaccine scam?
This scam starts with a call from an unknown person who will introduce themselves as a representative of the NHS. They will walk the victim through all the processes that are involved in getting the vaccine, and will offer early access for a cost. Then, they will direct the victim to a fake NHS website where they can "book" a vaccination schedule, so they can start getting the victim's information.
How can you spot this scam?
- First of all, the NHS will never charge you for the vaccine.
- It will also never ask any bank details, especially over the phone.
- The vaccine is being delivered using a priority group system which is available on the gov.uk website.
What should you do to avoid this scam?
- Hang up immediately if you suspect a fraudulent call.
- If the caller provides a link, check gov.uk to ensure that it is legitimate.
- Use a call blocker like the CPR V5000 to avoid calls like this. Not only can it block unsolicited numbers at a touch of a button, but it's also pre-programmed to block 5,000 nuisance numbers. This helps provide a dramatic reduction in the amount of scam calls you get every day.
- 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.
Learn more about the CPR V5000 here: CPR V5000 Call Blocker
Things have already been tough. Therefore you shouldn't let any scammer seize the opportunity to prey on you and your loved ones.