COVID-19 now has something in common with scams offering extended car warranties and free vacations: LincolnHealth’s John Martins said there have been reports of people receiving calls asking for sensitive information regarding scheduling for the vaccine.

A legitimate call will not request a full Social Security number, credit card information, banking information, or payment of any kind to schedule an appointment, said Martins. “It's important for people to know that those scheduling an appointment will only be asked to verify date of birth and provide a mailing address/ZIP code.”

The MaineHealth call center – 1-877-780-7545 – is the only number people should use to schedule an appointment within MaineHealth-affiliated sites.

Martins said if appointments are not available, the center will call back from the same number. “The call is intended to keep people informed as to where they are in the registration process.”

MaineHealth’s call back script states all scheduled appointments are confirmed appointments and that no sensitive information or payment will be requested by MaineHealth employees. The script: “Hello, this is confirmation from MaineHealth that we have received your pre-registration. We are working as quickly as possible to schedule vaccination appointments for eligible residents over age 70. We appreciate your patience and will contact you in the order of your registration. Please note, no one from MaineHealth will ask for your full Social Security number or credit card information. If you have already scheduled your appointment, rest assured – it is confirmed.”