DUBLIN: Gardai are warning the public about a smishing scam in which fraudsters advise the public to book a COVID-19 test or vaccine appointment.
People will receive fake text messages purporting to be from the HSE, advising them to schedule an appointment for a COVID-19 test or vaccine by clicking on a link in the text.
Gardai warns that if the person clicks on the link, they will be taken to a cloned website where fraudsters would ask for personal information such as their PPS number and payment for the test or vaccination.
The Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB) has reminded the public that the Health Service Executive will never ask payment for COVID-19 testing or vaccinations.
It also said that in most cases, the fraudulent links resemble the real HSE URL but may be misspelt. The GNECB warned people to be wary of such text messages.
Gardai also warned people to be careful of other fake texts purporting to be from service providers, revenue, banks, and delivery companies.
An Garda Síochána’s advice to the public:
● Never click on a link in an unsolicited text messages or email, and never respond to fraudulent phone calls seeking personal information
● Do not reply or contact the number provided in these texts
● Never share personal information such as PIN numbers, card numbers, passwords, one-time codes, or PPS numbers
● If you responded to such text messages or paid the scammers, contact your bank immediately and report the matter to your local Garda Station
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