eHealth Saskatchewan warns of COVID vaccine text scam

A text scam making the rounds has prompted a warning from eHealth Saskatchewan.

The text asks people to click a link, supposedly with information about scheduling third COVID-19 vaccine doses.

eHealth is urging people not to click the link.

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

In a statement, eHealth explains the link contains malware which can infect your device and put you at risk by exposing personal information.

A similar text scam was identified by the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) in September.

People who receive the text are asked to contact the CAFC online or by phone at 1-888-495-8501. Incidents also can be reported to local police.

The CAFC listed a number of warning signs that can help people identify scams:

• 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; and,
• Contact the agency directly to verify the legitimacy.