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An alert has been issed after the fraudsters posing as NHS officials emailed and texted messages to OAPs telling them they had been selected for the jab “on the basis of family genetics and medical history”. Elderly Britons are promised “the best protection against coronavirus” if they click on links to give their personal details and payment method.

The message reads: “The NHS is performing selections for coronavirus vaccination on the basis of family genetics and medical history.

“You have been selected to receive a coronavirus vaccination.

“NOTE: The coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine is safe and effective. It gives you the best protection against coronavirus.

“Use this service to confirm your coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination.”

It adds: “Please confirm or reject your invitation by selecting an option below.”

And in a bid to lure in any sceptical pensioners, the scammers said: “You are far more likely to be seriously injured by a vaccine-preventable disease than by a vaccine.”

The message was sent out as millions of elderly and vulnerable Britons patiently await their turn to be called for a vaccine. 

Merton Council in south west London tweeted a screengrab of the scam to warn residents. 

They said: ” e’ve been made aware of a scam email offering the #COVID vaccine.

“The vaccine is only available from the NHS & you will not be asked to provide any payment details.

“If you’ve been a victim of fraud, report online.”

To date, more than 6.5 million people in the UK have been given the first dose of the vaccine. 

Over 470,000 have had their second jab, meaning they are almost fully protected against the virus. 

Under the Government’s rollout scheme, the first phase priority groups include over 80s, over 70s, frontline healthcare workers and care home residents.

Those classed as clinically extremely vulnerable individuals are also being treated as a priority.  

More to follow.

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