RESIDENTS are being warned to beware of fraudsters who are contacting people and offering the Covid-19 vaccination.

Brighton and Hove Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) said it is aware of scams in the city where people are receiving calls and texts about the jab, and are charged when they reply, or are asked for their bank details.

The CCG issued a warning and said: "In some cases, people are asked to press a number on their keypad or to send a text message to confirm they wish to receive the vaccine.

"Doing so is likely to result in a charge being applied to their phone bill. In other cases, callers are offering the vaccine for a fee or asking for bank details.

"The vaccine is only available from the NHS and the NHS will contact you when it is your turn.

"The NHS will never ask you to press a button on your keypad or send a text asking you to confirm you want the vaccine, and will never ask for payment for the vaccine or for your bank details."

At present, appointments are only being offered to members of the public over 80 years old.

READ MORE: GPs start rollout of vaccinations in Brighton and Hove

Anyone who receives a call they believe to be fraudulent is advised to hang up straight away.

If you believe you have been the victim of fraud or identity theft you can report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040, and to Sussex Police online or by calling 101.