NICOLA Sturgeon has warned against fraudsters using the vaccine in an attempt to extort money. 

The First Minister said the Scottish Government had received reports of people being contacted by scammers via phone or email. 

The crooks have conned their victims into handing over bank details to "confirm their booking".

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Ms Sturgeon reiterated NHS Scotland would never ask for money or these details and will only ever contact patients via phone or, in most cases, letter. 

During her daily briefing, Ms Sturgeon said: "It is similar to the issues we faced last year in relation to fake phone calls with Covid tests.

"Unfortunately, it is a really sad reflection of aspects of society but it seems any new service we have provides an opportunity for new scams.

Glasgow Times: Nicola Sturgeon Nicola Sturgeon

"We are becoming aware of some scam emails and messages which are being sent out about vaccine appointments. 

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"I want to emphasise the fact that the Covid vaccine is free to everyone in Scotland. That means NHS Scotland will never ask you to share your bank details or pay for vaccination.

"On no account should you ever share your bank details with someone to confirm a vaccination appointment.

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"In addition, NHS Scotland is not using email to contact people. If you receive an email, it will be a fake. Please don't interact with it.

"NHS Scotland is contacting eligible people by phone or letter. They will never turn up unannounced at your door."