Warning over Covid vaccine scam email circulating in Doncaster

The email, describes itself as a ‘public health message from the NHS’ and includes official looking logos.

But the email, which says people can be selected for vaccine based on ‘family genetics and medical history’ is not genuine and people are being urged not to click on links within which take users to a separate site where they are asked to enter bank details. No registration for the real vaccine is required.

The email also contains the wording: “You have been selected to receive a coronavirus vaccination.”

The NHS says it would never ask for bank details, and the vaccine is free.

Both the National Cyber Security Centre and Action Fraud have asked anyone who receives a scam email or text to report it.

"Vaccines are our way out of this pandemic," said health secretary Matt Hancock.

"It is vital that we do not let a small number of unscrupulous fraudsters undermine the huge team effort under way across the country to protect millions of people from this terrible disease."

Last year, tech firms warned that coronavirus was a popular hook for scammers. In April 2020 Google said it was blocking 18 million scam emails a day on the subject.

Anyone who wants to report coronavirus scammers in South Yorkshire, can contact South Yorkshire Police on 101.