Beware of Scams
Common scams can include fake charities, callers claiming to be a representative from a legitimate charity, checks from the government, people pretending to call from the government and more.
Learn more on USA.gov
Prevent ID Theft
An identity thief may use your information to apply for credit, file taxes, or get medical services. These acts can damage your credit status and cost time and money to restore your good name.
Learn more on USA.gov
Source: From USA.gov
Coronavirus Scams, Rumors, and Price Gouging
During the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, scammers may try to take advantage of you through misinformation and scare tactics. They might get in touch by phone, email, postal mail, text, or social media. Protect your money and your identity by not sharing personal information like your bank account number, Social Security number, or date of birth. Learn more about these scams and how to report them.
Common Coronavirus Scams
Scammers change their methods frequently. Current coronavirus scams include:
- Charity scams - Fake charities pop up during disasters. And scammers can also claim to be from real charities. Learn how to research charity claims and protect your money.
- Checks from the government - Scammers say they’re from the IRS or another government agency and ask for your personal information or try to charge you fake fees for getting your stimulus check or offer you a way to get the money early.
- FDIC and banking - People pretend to call from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or your bank and say your bank account or your ability to get cash are in danger and ask for your personal information.
- Grandparent and military service member scams - A scammer pretends to be a grandchild or a military service member who’s sick or in trouble because of the coronavirus. They contact you asking to wire them money to pay for fake medical or travel expenses.
- Testing, vaccine, and treatment scams - Beware of offers for "home" test kits and unknown "miracle" cures or vaccines. They do not exist. Scammers are also targeting Medicare recipients by offering COVID-19 testing in an attempt to steal personal information.
Learn about other types of coronavirus scams and listen to recordings of sample phone messages from scammers.
