From the FTC: Coronavirus scams are spreading nearly as fast as the virus itself. As of Dec. 10, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) had logged more than 269,000 consumer complaints related to COVID-19 and stimulus payments, two-thirds of them involving fraud or identity theft. Victims have reported losing $201.3 million, with a median loss of $326.
Fraudsters are using the full suite of scam tools — phishing emails and texts, bogus social media posts, robocalls, impostor schemes and more — and closely following the headlines, adapting their messages and tactics as new medical and economic issues arise.
For example, with the government granting emergency authorization of the first COVID-19 vaccines, federal and state agencies are warning of a flood of vaccine scams, with phony websites and email campaigns touting easy and early access to coronavirus shots. The FBI says scammers are posing as charity fundraisers, soliciting donations to supposedly help individuals, organizations and areas affected by the virus.
Tips to avoid coronavirus scams
- Avoid online offers for coronavirus-related vaccines or cures; they aren’t legitimate.
- Be wary of emails, calls and social media posts advertising “free” or government-ordered COVID-19 tests. Check the FDA website for a list of approved tests and testing companies.
- Don’t click on links or download files from unexpected emails, even if the email address looks like a company or person you recognize. Ditto for text messages and unfamiliar websites.
- Don’t share personal information such as Social Security, Medicare and credit card numbers in response to an unsolicited call, text or email.
- Be skeptical of fundraising calls or emails for COVID-19 victims or virus research, especially if they pressure you to act fast and request payment by prepaid debit cards or gift cards.
- Ignore phone calls or emails from strangers urging you to invest in a hot new coronavirus stock.
Sources: FTC, FCC, FBI, SEC