BLACKBURN with Darwen Council is educating people on how not to fall victim to scammers posting on social media to offer tests for the Covid-19 Omicron variant.

Social media posts have been circulating asking people to ‘apply now for an Omicron PCR test to avoid restrictions’. They then include a link to a fake NHS website which may ask for payment or bank details.

There is currently no NHS test being offered specifically aimed at the Omicron variant of Covid-19.

Anyone who spots social media posts or receives emails offering Omicron Coronavirus tests is being asked to forward them to report@phishing.gov.uk.

Cllr Quesir Mahmood said: "It really is despicable that scammers take every opportunity they can to trick people out of money and to get their personal details.

"At this time, with heightened concerns about the new Covid variant, there may well be people who fall prey to such a scam as this.

"As with all scams, it’s important to remember: if it doesn’t feel right or raises your suspicions, be cautious and don’t give away your personal information, including bank details.

"Once these fraudsters have your details, they can commit identity theft, take money from your account, or pass them on to organised crime networks, so it’s vital you don’t reply and report them as soon as possible."

Information on how to get a PCR test if you have Covid symptoms or are a close-contact of someone who has tested positive for Covid can be found at www.blackburn.gov.uk/get-a-test.

You can also visit the national site www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test or call NHS 119.

Alternatively, there is information on what to do on the Citizens Advice website.