Avoid COVID-19 Scams
Scams related to the coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, are rapidly increasing. Fraudsters are targeting older adults and those with serious long- term health conditions to illegally obtain money or Medicare numbers.
- Do not give out your Medicare number or Social Security Number (SSN) to anyone other than your doctor, health care provider, or other trusted representative.
- Protect your Medicare number and SSN and treat your Medicare card like a credit card.
- Never give your Medicare or SSN number to anyone who contacts you through unsolicited calls, texts, or emails.
- Be cautious of anyone who comes to your door offering free coronavirus testing, treatment, or supplies.
- Don’t click on links from sources you don’t know, which could put your computer or device at
risk. Make sure the anti-malware and anti-virus software on your computer are up-to-date.
- Be cautious when purchasing medical supplies from unverified sources, including online advertisements and e-mail/phone solicitations.
- Ignore online offers for vaccinations or treatments. If you see ads touting prevention products or cures for COVID- 19, they are most likely a scam.
- Do your homework before making a donation to a charity or crowdfunding site due to a public health emergency. Be particularly wary of any charities requesting donations by cash, by gift card, or wire transfer.
- Be alert to “investment opportunities.” The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is warning people about online promotions, including on social media, claiming that the products or services of publicly traded companies can prevent, detect, or cure COVID-19 and that the stock of these companies will dramatically increase in value as a result.
Download Fraud Flyers in other languages
The East Bay Senior Independent
Get a monthly newsletter of tips to make life happier and healthier at home.