SHAMELESS scammers have been targetting people promising 'early access' to a coronavirus vaccine for a fee.

Fraudsters have been calling and texting people in Oxfordshire out of the blue asking them to click on links or press 1 in recorded messages.

Victims are then asked to hand over personal information and financial details to book 'a vaccination'.

But this is a scam and con-artists are exploiting the pandemic in an attempt to steal money.

Real vaccines, like the Oxford University one approved yesterday, are being rolled out across the UK through the NHS – starting with people who are most at risk.

Oxfordshire County Council’s head of trading standards, Jody Kerman, said: “Unfortunately, scammers will use any high-profile situation to try to commit their crimes and the coronavirus pandemic has given them a new opportunity.

"Scammers will often use fear tactics, or claims of big rewards or access to restricted goods and services – trying to rush their victims and taking away their time to think.”

  • Scammers always act with urgency using words like ‘now’, ‘quick’, and ‘don’t delay’.
  • Keep software and apps updated
  • If you have fallen victim to a scam call action fraud on 0300 123 2040
  • In an emergency always call 999. To report a crime call police on 101.

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