NSW Health are issuing a caution to all wishing to book a vaccine due to a number of scam websites allegedly booking vaccines.

Scamwatch is warning Australians of scams that may attempt to gain personal information and lead to financial loss.

To avoid a vaccination scam residents are encouraged to protect themselves with the following advice.

Don’t give personal information to someone who calls you about the vaccine.

Don’t click on links in unexpected emails or text messages.

Don’t pay to get on a vaccination list – COVID-19 vaccines will be free for everyone living in Australia.

Don’t pay for early access to a vaccine as there is no early access to these vaccines.

Residents will not need a prescription from a GP to get vaccinated.

A NSW Health statement said, “We will never ask for bank, credit card or other payment details.

“COVID-19 vaccinations are voluntary and free.”

If you are asked for any of this information by someone claiming to provide COVID-19 vaccines, it is a scam and should be reported to Scamwatch via their website.

For anyone wishing to book a COVID-19 vaccine appointment, follow the Australian Government Department of Health website secured with a lock icon next to the web address.

This is a secure website that will assess your eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine and will lead you to a booking website if eligible.

This can be accessed at https://covid-vaccine.healthdirect.gov.au/eligibility

 

By Tara CAMPBELL