Patient Alert: Beware of Scam NHS Text Messages
⚠️ Important Information for Our Patients
We have been made aware that scam text messages are circulating claiming to be from the NHS or GP surgeries.
Please stay vigilant and remember:
✅ Genuine NHS App notifications may send you a text simply telling you that you have a new secure message waiting in the NHS App. They will not ask you to reply with personal or bank details by text. (NHS England Digital)
Be cautious if a text message:
- Asks for your bank or payment details.
- Requests passwords or security codes.
- Pressures you to act urgently.
- Threatens to remove you from your GP surgery list.
- Contains suspicious links.
❌ The NHS and GP surgeries will never:
- Ask for your bank details by text message.
- Ask you to make a payment to remain registered.
- Threaten to remove you from the practice if you do not click a link or respond immediately. (NHS Counter Fraud Authority)
If you’re unsure
- Do not click on any links.
- Contact the surgery directly using our usual telephone number.
- Forward suspicious text messages to 7726 (it’s free) to help your mobile provider investigate scam messages. (NHS Counter Fraud Authority)
Thank you for helping to keep yourself and others safe.
Coldalhurst Lane Surgery