Gardaí have issued a warning about a ‘smishing’ scam that is impersonating a message from the HSE.
As part of this fraud, a person will receive a text message purporting to be from the HSE.
However, the HSE will never seek any form of payment for providing Covid tests, testing kits or vaccination.
The text message states; “You have been in close contact with someone who has contracted the Omicron Variant.” The message asks people to visit a malicious website to order a PCR testing Kit.
The link directs them to a website that looks legitimate and is similar to the HSE website.
They are then presented with an information page, which has a Booking option at the end.
If they select “Book Now”, they will be directed to a personal details page that asks them to fill in their private information and select “Continue”, which will take them to the next page.
This page will say “We require a payment of €2.39 to deliver your test order kit” and will ask for billing information.
The garda advice to the public is as follows:
- Be wary of any such texts.
- The HSE will never seek any form of payment for providing Covid tests, testing kits or vaccinations.
- Never give away personal data like your PIN, card numbers and passwords
- If you have been a victim and lost money, immediately contact your bank to do a recall and always report the matter to the Gardaí.
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