POLICE Scotland has urged Scots not to fall for a new coronavirus scam being circulated through messages. 

The national force has received reports of text messages being sent to people telling them they are eligible for the Covid vaccine and asking them to hand over cash or their bank details.

Chief Inspector Anton Stephenson, of Police Scotland's Safer Communities Division, said: "We are aware of a scam circulating involving a text message suggesting people are eligible for the coronavirus vaccine. If you are concerned you have provided personal or financial information via a link in a message of this sort, contact Police Scotland via 101. 

"We will pursue anyone who sets out to cause harm and misery to our communities, and our officers work closely with partners to make Scotland a hostile environment for scammers."

His warning comes as the Royal Bank of Scotland issued an urgent fraud alert to customers. 

The bank noted that the UK's national reporting centre for scams, Action Fraud, saw a 400% increase in reports of dishonest cons at the beginning of the first lockdown in March. 

Jason Costain, head of fraud at the Royal Bank said: “You are now more likely to be a victim of fraud in the UK than any other crime. During last year’s lockdown criminals took advantage of more people working remotely and online. It therefore makes sense to take some simple steps to make yourself and your family more fraud proof.” 

Police Scotland has launched a new public information campaign, Take Five, which aims to help people spot scams. 

Chief Inspector Stephenson said: "Our Take Five campaign, which launched recently, raises awareness of fraud, and highlights ways people can protect themselves and remain vigilant to this kind of crime.

"Always be aware that an unsolicited telephone call, email or text message may not be from the person or organisation which it appears to be from. Never click on a link in a message you're not expecting, and remember the NHS will never ask you for money relating to the Covid-19 pandemic."