Following reports of criminals using the NHS COVID Pass as a way to target the public to steal money, financial details and personal information, the Welsh Government has issued a warning to people across Wales that the NHS is not sending out invitations for the NHS COVID passes.

The NHS COVID pass is free and can be used to prove that you’re vaccinated against coronavirus before attending events or when travelling abroad. The Pass is available to show your Covid-19 vaccination status either in a digital or paper format via the NHS App, the NHS website or by calling 119. For information on how to get your free NHS COVID Pass visit www.nhs.uk/nhscovidpass

The following tips can help you stay safe from this NHS COVID Pass scam and other COVID-19 related scams:

  • Be alert to links and attachments in unexpected text messages or emails.
  • Never click on links in suspicious texts and emails – and don’t enter any personal or financial information.
  • If you’ve clicked on a link and you think it’s a scam, contact your bank immediately.
  • Be wary of any out of the blue approaches about the COVID-19 vaccine or passports. If in doubt, check the official NHS site for information or contact the organisation in question directly.

Remember:

  • The NHS App is free. The NHS COVID Pass is free. The NHS will never ask for payment or any financial details.
  • Do not respond to requests for money or important personal information such as bank details or passwords.
  • Use the official NHS COVID pass website.

If you suspect you have been a victim of an NHS COVID Pass scam:

  • If you receive a call and suspect it to be fraudulent, hang up.
  • If you are suspicious about an email, forward it to report@phishing.gov.uk
  • If you are suspicious about a text message, you can forward it to the number 7726, which is free-of-charge.
  • If you believe you are a victim of a fraud, please report this to Action Fraud as soon as possible by visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk or calling 0300 123 2040.

If you have any information relating to NHS COVID Pass or vaccine certificate fraud you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting Crimestoppers online at www.covidfraudhotline.org or phone on 0800 587 5030.

05/10/2021