Consumer Awareness – May 2020

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) posted a handful of identified scams circulating throughout the country as a result of the coronavirus outbreak. Scammers are exploiting consumer fears and paranoia by targeting wary victims via email, phone, and text messages.

Below are various scams to be aware of and what to do:

1-Don’t respond to texts, emails or calls about checks from the government. It is very rare that government agencies contact consumers directly.

2-Ignore online offers for vaccinations and home test kits. There are no products proven to treat or prevent COVID-19 at this time.

3-Hang up on robocalls. Scammers are using illegal robocalls to pitch everything from low-priced health insurance to work-at-home schemes.

4-Watch for emails claiming to be from the CDC or WHO. Use sites like coronavirus.gov & usa.gov/coronavirus to get the latest information. Don’t click on unknown links.

5-Be increasingly weary about charitable organizations claiming to need assistance due to the coronavirus. Never donate in cash, by gift card, or by wiring money.

Source: FTC; https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/coronavirus-scams