SCAMMERS are taking advantage of fears over the new Omicron coronavirus variant by asking people to give their personal details while booking a test.

Southend Trading Standards has issued a warning today about the new scam, which is being sent via email.

Experts fear the Omicron variant is more infectious than other strains of the virus and vaccines may be less effective against it.

The scam email, which contains the NHS logo, asks the recipient to book a special Omicron Covid test which are being specially made in response to the new variant.

It claims new testing kits are being made because the new variant ‘appears dormant’ on current tests being used.

People reading the email are asked to click on a link which takes them to a fake NHS website.

They are asked to provide personal details while booking one of these new tests.

Southend Trading Standards said in a statement: “Beware of these fake NHS emails requiring the recipient to order a Omicron PCR test.

“The link takes you to a fake NHS website that ask for personal details.

“If you get this email, please forward it to the National Cyber Security Centre's Suspicious Email Reporting Service.”

He added the NHS will never ask for payment or bank details.

Scams can be reported at Report@Phishing.Gov.UK.