Venue linked to outbreak text?

[Auntycorruption]

I have today received the following text message. Is it a scam? If not, how does it know where I have been?

It came from the same number that has previously texted me confirmation of PCR test appointments. I can see previous messages in the chat history. So looks legit.

I don't have the tracking app and have not used QR codes anywhere recently.

You have visited a venue linked to a COVID-19 outbreak

You do not need to self-isolate, but you should get a test - even if fully vaccinated

If you have symptoms, book a PCR test. If you have no symptoms, order a rapid lateral flow test

For more information and to get a test: www.gov.uk/coronavirus

Sounds legit to me based on what you have said about the number. They haven’t given you any links to complete or anything.

Sounds like a legitimate message.

Seems legit to me.

Presumably you've been somewhere that has your details - either because you booked an appointment, checked in (on paper, if you haven't used the app) or someone else in the group you were with registered everyone's details.

Almost certainly legit

If you've been anywhere in the last few days that has your phone number, then it could be from there, ie work, restaurant, hair appointment.

As with any unexpected text, if you visit the website mentioned, it would be wise to type the address into your browser rather than click on the link.

Sounds legit especially if the website really is the government site - scams tend to come with something that asks for your personal details, otherwise what would be the point of sending it as a scam.

My child got a message just like that when someone else in the group got an isolate message. They reckoned the other person was on the wrong side of the restauarant table and hence had greater exposure. So a valid message, get the test.

Interesting! I haven't had any T&T contacts apart from generic letters from school re cases in class. We're all negative on LFT anyway & no symptoms.

@bagofconkers

Seems legit to me.

Presumably you've been somewhere that has your details - either because you booked an appointment, checked in (on paper, if you haven't used the app) or someone else in the group you were with registered everyone's details.

I guess so. Can't think where I've been but someone has got the number from somewhere!

Have you booked any restaurants, visited a customer or supplier’s premises at work. Cinema, theatre, had any appointments, anywhere who would have your contact details?

Well it’s good to know that all the information shared with T&T at least serves a purpose but…..how on earth do they know who to contact?
Is some other mobile data being used?

I had that today, really confused.
I can’t think of anywhere, no restaurants, pubs, venues etc.

I don’t have the app, I haven’t signed in on paper…

@TheViewFromTheCheapSeats

I had that today, really confused. I can’t think of anywhere, no restaurants, pubs, venues etc.

I've had this too and I haven't even left the house !

Someone might have put down a fake number at a restaurant or similar.