Scam text messages are being sent to people across Ireland asking them to book an appointment for a Covid-19 test through a link.
Gardaà have warned the public that these links take them to a cloned website where fraudsters ask personal information, including PPS numbers and payment for a COVID-19 test or vaccine.
In most instances the links look very similar to the authentic HSE URL but may be misspelled.
Gardaà have again reminded the public that the HSE will never look for payment for Covid tests or vaccinations, and said that people should be wary of such text messages.
There are also other ‘smishing’ texts being received and these can purport to be from service providers, revenue, banks and delivery businesses.
Some of these can fit into the threads of previously received genuine texts which adds an air of authenticity to them.
An Garda SÃochána has advised people never to click on a link of an unsolicited text, email or respond to cold callers seeking personal information.
