The Ministry of Labour and Social Security is advising members of the public to be vigilant against messages circulating on WhatsApp urging them to apply online for a “National Assistance Fund” from the Ministry.

It stresses that the messages are false, as there is no “National Assistance Fund.”

The Ministry is urging persons who receive the message via any medium to report it to the police immediately.

The Ministry is also cautioning persons against sharing their banking information or any other personal details via text message, Internet links or other similar means.

It says persons who have concerns, or who need information about the Ministry’s programmes, should contact the Ministry directly or visit a parish office.