Over the past couple of months, we’ve all heard many stories neighbors helping neighbors—people rising to help those in need during these extraordinary times.
Unfortunately, there are also reports of the opposite: scammers who seek to use the Covid-19 crisis to their advantage. Please be aware of the following and take care to protect yourself and your personal/financial information:
- Ignore offers for test kits and vaccines. FDA-approved test kits are only available through a licensed medical professional. Right now, there is no vaccine for Covid-19. Avoid purchasing test kits, “cures,” medications, air filters, etc. online, and instead consult your doctor regarding any concerns you may have related to Covid-19.
- Screen your phone calls. This one is simple: if you don’t recognize the number of an incoming call, don’t answer the phone. Scammers are using illegal robocalls to pitch products and solicit personal information. When in doubt, let the call go through to voicemail! If you do answer a phone call, NEVER give your personal information—your social security number, credit card information, bank account numbers, Medicare ID number, or driver license number—to anyone over the phone.
- Beware of emails and texts. Take the same precautions with emails and texts as you do with phone calls. Be wary of emails claiming to be the CDC, WHO, or any other official entity. Don’t click on links from suspicious sources. Be particularly aware of scams targeting people receiving social security benefits. Again, NEVER share your personal information.
- Take care with charitable donations. There are a lot of reputable organizations working hard to help people during these uncertain times. Unfortunately, there are also a lot of coronavirus-related charity scams. Never donate by wiring money from your bank account, with a gift card, or with cash. Instead, research the organization, make sure it is reputable, and make your donation via the charity’s secure online portal.
If you’re in doubt, the Federal Trade Commission and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau offer information about how to protect yourself from scams (and even what to do if you have been the victim of a scam). And please don’t hesitate to contact me if I can be of help.
Be well,
Sharon