NHS warns public to ‘beware’ of fake Omicron variant tests sold by shameless fraudsters
THE OMICRON VARIANT might have created one more market for fraudsters who claim to be selling Omicron variant tests just days after the strain was discovered.
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On Twitter, NHS UK warned that a series of fake emails initiated by scammers should be taken seriously as they promote the purchase of an Omicron test. The tweet read: "Beware of fake NHS emails asking you to order 'an Omicron PCR test.'
"We never ask for bank details, so please be aware of suspicious emails or text messages."
The fake email is adorned with the NHS logo and suggests to get a free Omicron PCR today to avoid restrictions.
The scam email continues: "NHS scientists have warned that the new Covid variant Omicron spreads rapidly, can be transmitted between fully vaccinated people, and makes jabs less effective.
"However. as the new covid variant (Omicron) has quickly become apparent, we have had to make new test kits as the new variant appears dormant in the original test kits."
Readers are then asked to click a link to "request a Free Omicron PCR test."
The health service advised anyone affected to contact the National Cyber Security Centre, which offers guidance on dodgy emails, texts, websites and calls, as reported by Birmingham Live.
The National Cyber Security Centre provides clear guidance and advice about how to recognise and report scams.
It says: "The purpose of a scam email is often to get you to click a link. This will take you to a website that might download a virus to your computer or steal passwords or other personal information. This is sometimes known as 'phishing'.
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������SCAM ALERT������
— Meaghan Kall (@kallmemeg) November 30, 2021
This fake test order form is doing the rounds. There is NO "Omicron PCR test".
Omicron is detected perfectly well using PCR tests currently in operation.
Such a shame, but not a surprise, to see people preying on people's fears for financial gain. pic.twitter.com/hIuDBIUsLr
"The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has the power to investigate and remove scam email addresses and websites. It's free to report a suspicious email to us, and it only takes a minute.
"By reporting phishing attempts, you can: reduce the number of scam emails you receive, make yourself a harder target for scammers and protect others from cybercrime online."
The new variant has only been made public on November 23 yet is already seen as an opportunity for fraudsters.
The Omicron variant was designated as a "variant of concern" by the World Health Organisation.
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Several countries are now imposing stricter controls to stop it from spreading, although some researchers have said the variant is already around us.
Anyone searching for a PCR test should register for one on the Government's official website (GOV.UK) or by calling 119.
In 2020, it was reported that criminals were taking advantage of Birmingham's drop and collect service by asking residents to pay up to £60 for a Covid test.
As seen in Birmingham Mail, scammers were also contacting residents by phone and asking people to pay for a Covid test.