Fake COVID Booster Appointment Scam

फर्जी कोविड बूस्टर अपॉइंटमेंट घोटाला

INDIA — By BharatSecure Threat Intelligence Team ·

Verdict: Dangerous | Risk Score: 9/10 | Severity: MEDIUM

Category: Other

How Fake COVID Booster Appointment Scam Works

  1. Step 1: Victims receive SMS or calls claiming urgent booster slots are available on CoWIN with fake links like www.indiavaccine1.com
  2. Step 2: Link redirects to bogus 'Vaccine Reservation' page promising slots for fee (₹3960 for two doses) with refund assurance
  3. Step 3: Payment extracted via fake gateways like DDPAY or Marspay asking for UPI details, accepts any input showing fake success
  4. Step 4: No appointment or vaccine provided, funds transferred to scammer accounts, or saline injected at fake camps

How This Scam Works — Detailed Explanation

The Fake COVID Booster Appointment Scam is a new and dangerous fraud targeting Indian citizens eager to stay protected against COVID-19. Scammers create fake websites that look similar to the official CoWIN portal but use unofficial domains like indiavaccine1.com instead of cowin.gov.in. They advertise booster dose appointments but demand advance payments, often claiming these are government fees or special processing charges. Victims are lured through messages on WhatsApp, SMS, or even phone calls that promise guaranteed slots for the vaccine.

These fraudsters exploit the widespread use of UPI and mobile banking in India by directing users to suspicious payment gateways. Instead of trusted apps like BHIM, Google Pay, or PhonePe, victims are redirected to unknown or Chinese-based payment sites. The scammers pressure people by using urgent language—warning that the offer will expire or suggesting that only immediate payment will ensure a slot. They may even dissuade victims from using genuine payment methods, falsely claiming they are not accepted for this process.

After victims pay, no real appointment is booked. The official CoWIN website shows no record, and no legitimate confirmation is sent. Worse, after the supposed vaccination date, there is no CoWIN certificate generated, which is a key proof of vaccination in India. Victims end up losing money and remain vulnerable without actual protection. Sometimes, the scams try to steal further details like Aadhaar numbers, bank details, or OTPs, putting victims at risk of identity theft or bank fraud.

The scam hurts the public’s trust in India’s free vaccination drive, which is managed by the government and offered at no cost through verified centres. Cybercriminals exploiting the healthcare urgency during the pandemic is a harsh reminder to everyone to stay vigilant. If you encounter any suspicious vaccine booking site or payment demand, report it immediately to the government’s cybercrime portal at cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930 for assistance.

Who Does Fake COVID Booster Appointment Scam Target?

Middle-aged to elderly Indians (50+) in urban areas like Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi who are anxious about boosters and less tech-savvy

Red Flags — How to Identify Fake COVID Booster Appointment Scam

  • Demands payment for free government vaccines/boosters
  • Unofficial domains not cowin.gov.in like indiavaccine1.com
  • No CoWIN certificate generated after vaccination
  • Suspicious payment gateways redirecting to Chinese sites
  • Urgent pressure tactics and warnings against legitimate payment apps

What To Do If You Encounter Fake COVID Booster Appointment Scam

  1. Verify all COVID-19 booster appointments only on the official CoWIN website (cowin.gov.in).
  2. Do not pay any fees for vaccine bookings, as government vaccinations are free.
  3. Report any suspicious websites, messages, or calls to cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930 immediately.
  4. Avoid clicking on links received through WhatsApp or SMS for vaccine bookings unless verified.
  5. Share information about this scam with family and friends to protect your community.

How to Report Fake COVID Booster Appointment Scam in India

  • Call 1930 — National Cyber Crime Helpline (24x7)
  • File a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in
  • Contact your bank immediately if money was lost
  • Call RBI helpline: 14440 for banking fraud

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fake COVID Booster Appointment Scam?
Dangerous: Fake COVID Booster Appointment Scam is a confirmed scam in India. Beware of fake COVID booster appointment scams demanding payment. Official vaccines are free. Report scams at cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930.
How does Fake COVID Booster Appointment Scam work?
Step 1: Victims receive SMS or calls claiming urgent booster slots are available on CoWIN with fake links like www.indiavaccine1.com Step 2: Link redirects to bogus 'Vaccine Reservation' page promising slots for fee (₹3960 for two doses) with refund assurance Step 3: Payment extracted via fake gateways like DDPAY or Marspay asking for UPI details, accepts any input showing fake success Step 4: No appointment or vaccine provided, funds transferred to scammer accounts, or saline injected at fake camps
How to protect yourself from Fake COVID Booster Appointment Scam?
Verify all COVID-19 booster appointments only on the official CoWIN website (cowin.gov.in). Do not pay any fees for vaccine bookings, as government vaccinations are free. Report any suspicious websites, messages, or calls to cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930 immediately. Avoid clicking on links received through WhatsApp or SMS for vaccine bookings unless verified.
How to report Fake COVID Booster Appointment Scam in India?
Report to cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930 (National Cyber Crime Helpline). You can also contact your local police station's cyber cell.

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