HSE reassures public it does not charge for Covid-19 testing
The HSE has urged the public to be vigilant, in light of reports of a telephone/text scam from criminals claiming to be HSE contact tracing and testing staff.
The fraudulent calls and text messages claim that the person has been identified as a close contact of someone who has Covid-19 and ask for money for a testing kit to be sent to them and for bank details.
The HSE does not charge the public for Covid-19 related services, including testing, and advises that such texts and calls should be ignored.
The HSE stated: "Any close contacts of a confirmed positive case of Covid-19 will be contacted by phone call by the Contact Tracing Team or Public Health Staff in the HSE and referred for a test. The HSE does not charge or ask for payment for testing.
"If the Covid-19 Tracker App has identified you as a close contact you will see a red box with the advice on what you should do next on all pages of the app.
"You will never be asked for your bank details or to pay for testing by a member of HSE contact tracing staff.
If you are concerned or suspicious about any contact you have received regarding Covid-19 testing, please ring HSELive on (1850 ) 241850 and contact your local Gardaí."
