eHealth Saskatchewan is urging residents to not click on a link that is sent through a text message as it’s a scam. In a statement posted to their website, eHealth says the text asks people to click a link which supposedly has information about booking a third COVID-19 vaccine appointment. The statement from eHealth adds the link contains malware which could infect your device and could put you at risk by exposing your personal information and other online account credentials. Anyone who receives such a text is asked to report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre or your local police.
Below is the statement posted to eHealth’s website:
eHealth Saskatchewan has received reports of a text message scam about COVID-19 vaccines. The message poses as an online vaccination scheduling website contacting you about your third COVID-19 vaccine. The fraudulent message contains a malicious link, which may ask you to download software that contains malware.
Malware can infect your device and put you at risk for identity fraud by exposing your personal information, banking details and online account credentials. Do not tap the link!
A similar text message scam was identified by the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) in September 2021. CAFC offered the following advice:
Warning Signs and How to Protect Yourself
Beware of unsolicited text messages and emails from individuals or organizations asking you to tap/click on a link or attachment.
Watch for spelling mistakes in unsolicited messages.
Verify the hyperlink behind the link’s text or button by hovering over the text with your mouse.
Do not tap/click on links or attachments in unsolicited messages; they can contain viruses or spyware.
Contact the agency directly to verify the legitimacy.
Learn more tips and tricks for protecting yourself from fraud.
Anyone who suspects they have been the victim of cybercrime or fraud should report it to their local police and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s online reporting system or by phone at 1-888-495-8501.
Not a victim? You should still report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Don't click that link!
We're aware of a text message scam re COVID-19 vaccinations. The text poses as an online vax scheduling website contacting you re your 3rd dose. Do not tap on the malicious link, which could infect your device. https://t.co/A8QgxpHhNm pic.twitter.com/GXOXM79OOX
— eHealth Saskatchewan (@eHealthSask) January 14, 2022
