Police are warning about another Covid-related scam, after a number of residents across Derbyshire have reported receiving a text message inviting them to apply for Covid-19 passports.

The NHS vaccine pass, which is free, can be used to prove you're vaccinated against coronavirus before attending events or when travelling abroad.

It appears scammers are already trying to use this as part of a bid to trick people out of cash. Fake emails on the Covid-19 vaccine passport have also been reported in other parts of the country.

Derbyshire Constabulary is urging people not to click the link in the message, as the scam works by taking getting people to click the link to take them to a fake site, designed to look like the NHS.

They will ask you to fill in your personal information and payment details for a small fee, sometimes called an administration fee. The details will then be used to take more money from your bank account.

The NHS vaccine pass is free and you can find details on your eligibility and how to get it through the NHS website.

Police are advising people to search for the pass themselves, rather than clicking links sent through text or email.

They have also issued the following guidance to help residents stay safe from this and other Covid-19 related scams.
• Never click on links in suspicious texts and emails – and don’t enter any personal or financial information
• If you’ve clicked on a link and you think it’s a scam, contact your bank immediately
• Be wary of any out of the blue approaches about the Covid-19 vaccine or passports. If in doubt, check the official NHS site for information or contact the organisation in question directly

People can report fraud or cyber crime through the online reporting service for Action Fraud any time of the day or night at https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/

The service enables you to both report a fraud and find help and support. Help and advice can also be accessed over the phone through the Action Fraud contact centre by calling 0300 123 2040.