Scam emails, texts and social media posts inviting people to book specific Omicron PCR tests to "avoid restrictions" are circulating.
Swindon Borough Council has warned people not to be fooled by these messages which look like they come from the NHS.
The council has urged people to not click on links or respond to messages unless the website URL is a trusted one.
The scam social media post pictured below is trying to trick people by saying 'the new variant appears dormant in the original test kits'.
This particular scam has used a scare tactic to encourage people to click the link.
It states: "What happens if you decline a Covid-19 Omicron test?
"People who do not consent or cannot agree to a Covid-19 test and refuse to undergo a swab must be isolated."
The council has issued guidance to guard people against potential scams.
It said: "Take a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information.
"Consider if it could be fake - it’s ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests
"The police, or your bank, will never ask you to withdraw money or transfer it to a different account - they will also never ask you to reveal your full banking password or PIN.
"Confirm requests are genuine by using a known number or email address to contact organisations directly."
Anyone who see this post should report it using this link: http://ow.ly/6Yez50H2Cb8.
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