*Beware* Potential Scams from COVID-19

Scammers are taking advantage of fears surrounding the novel coronavirus, also known as COVID-19. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself. 

• Be aware that scammers may be spoofing (impersonating) numbers from local public health departments or other trusted sources so they appear legitimate on your caller ID. To verify the identity of a caller, hang up and look up the organization’s number to call them back.
• Do not give your personal information to people on the phone or those who come to your door. Personal information includes your social security number, credit card number, or Medicare ID.
• Ignore online offers for vaccinations. There currently are no vaccines, pills, potions, lotions, lozenges or other prescription or over-the-counter products available to treat or cure COVID-19 – online or in stores*.
• Don’t click on links from sources you don’t know. They could download viruses onto your computer or device. Watch for emails claiming to be from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or experts saying that they have information about the virus.
• For the most up-to-date information about the Coronavirus, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) https://www.cdc.gov and the World Health Organization (WHO) https://www.who.int
• Do your homework when it comes to donations, whether through charities or crowdfunding sites. Don’t let anyone rush you into making a donation. If someone wants donations in cash, by gift card, or by wiring money, don’t do it.
• If you think you’ve been scammed, call your local law enforcement to make a report.