MAYVILLE — County officials are warning the public about a potential scam related to the COVID-19 vaccine.

As the vaccine rolls out nationwide, scammers are acting quickly to get personal and financial information.

“The vaccine will be rolled out in phases, and you cannot pay to get your name on a list to receive the vaccine and you cannot pay for early access,” the county said in a news release. “Individuals will also not be contacted by the Health Department, Medicare, or their insurance company to request information such as their social security number in order to sign them up to receive the vaccine.

“If an individual contacts you making these promises or requesting this information, stop- it is a scam.”

The county also noted several tips:

• only get a vaccine from a trusted source such as a doctor;

• do not click social media posts, texts, or email links selling cures;

• no one will call about the vaccine or request a social security number, Medicare number, bank account or credit card information.

Individuals who receive any such communication are encouraged to report it to their local police agency, NY Connects Helpline at 753-4582, or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/ .