Fake SMS regarding COVID-19 vaccine registration is spreading all over the internet. It circulated after CoWIN portal faced a lot of glitches on its debut day. As a result, a lot of users fell prey to the fake link. The link is supposed to damage your phone and install the malware in it.
Fake SMS Regarding COVID-19 Vaccine Registration
A fake SMS is circulating in India regarding the COVID-19 vaccine registration. Users must be careful and think twice before opening any unknown link. The link makes false claims of providing free COVID-19 vaccines. Hackers have found out that it is transferring malware to the user’s devices. It is circulating in the name of ‘Vaccine Register’. When CoWIN was launched on May 1, several users complained of glitches. However, the fake SMS started to spread right away. Many users fell prey to the link, thinking it to be the original registration portal.
How is it Harmful to Your Device?
The fake SMS link carries worms and malware along with it. Any user who clicks on it will receive a permission pop-up. It will ask permission to access data such as contacts, cameras, etc. Once clicked on yes, the link will acquire unnecessary information from your device. It may also invade your confidential data. The app was initially called ‘COVID-19’. But later renamed itself to ‘Vaccine Register’. It has updated itself to a lighter version so that it could spread to more devices. The fake SMS has targeted a lot of Indian users. Several people installed malware into their phones via the link. While looking for CoWIN alternatives, people have done a big blunder.
Stay Away from Any Fake SMS
Users are advised to avoid any such fake SMS. Do not click on links that are unknown to you. Stay away from those links that ask you to download unknown apps. Note that the COVID-19 vaccine registration is only being done on the Arogya Setu app, Umang app, and CoWIN. Besides these, there are no other ways for vaccine registration. There are a few links and apps that will tell you your nearest vaccination center. Henceforth, be extra careful. Knowingly or unknowingly, do not click on fake links. Follow only official websites and stay safe from cyber malware. In case you haven’t registered for vaccination yet, do so. However, if you have already registered, get vaccinated as soon as possible. Do not rely on any fake links.
