NHS SCAMS

NHS Scams UK — Fake NHS Texts, Calls and Websites

Updated July 2026 · 6 min read · By Silent Erase | ICO Registered C1971457

Criminals impersonate the NHS to steal personal information, bank details and money from UK residents. From fake vaccine appointment texts to bogus NHS calls demanding payment — NHS scams exploit the trust people have in one of Britain's most respected institutions.

Exploiting trust:
The NHS is one of the most trusted brands in the UK — which is exactly why criminals use its name. NHS impersonation scams have increased significantly since the Covid pandemic when vaccine-related scams proliferated.

What the NHS Will NEVER Do

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Ask for your bank or card details to book an appointment

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Charge you for NHS treatment or prescriptions via text or email link

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Send you a text asking you to click a link and enter personal details to receive a health payment

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Call you demanding payment to avoid losing your NHS number

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Ask for your National Insurance number to access NHS services

The Most Common NHS Scams

Fake NHS Health Payment Texts

Texts claiming you are owed an NHS health payment or prescription refund and asking you to click a link and enter your bank details to receive it. The NHS never sends payment notifications by text.

Fake Appointment Booking Texts

Texts claiming you have missed an NHS appointment and must click a link and pay a fee to rebook. The NHS does not charge for missed appointments or require payment to rebook.

Fake Prescription Texts

Messages claiming your prescription is ready for collection and asking you to pay a fee via a link before collection. Legitimate NHS prescription charges are paid at the pharmacy not via text links.

Fake NHS Websites

Websites that closely mimic nhs.uk and charge for services that are free on the real NHS website — such as GP registration, medical records or appointment booking. Always access NHS services at nhs.uk — never through links in unsolicited messages.

How to Verify NHS Communications

If you receive a suspicious message claiming to be from the NHS do not click any links. Access your NHS account directly at nhs.uk or call your GP surgery using a number you find there. Report suspicious NHS texts to 7726 and forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk.