How to Avoid Coronavirus Scams
Lots of people are trying to cash in on coronavirus anxiety right now by charging $ 79 for a bottle of Purell , selling fake face masks on Etsy, or claiming that you can cure COVID-19 with essential oils .
There are also several types of online scams – phishing attacks, malware scams, fake crowdfunding campaigns – that you need to be aware of.
As Julia Glum explains at Money.com , coronavirus-related scams can include any or all of the following: emails asking to donate money to the World Health Organization (which does not require donations ), emails asking you to download a program that may help with coronavirus research, emails offering new information about COVID-19 if you open an attachment or provide a password, and so on.
Generally, if you receive an unusual coronavirus-related email, especially if it includes an attachment, instructions to follow a link and / or sign in, or a request for money, be very careful.
The FTC has compiled a list of fraud prevention tips:
- Don’t follow links from sources you don’t know . They can download viruses to your computer or device.
- Watch out for emails purportedly sent by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or experts that have information about the virus. For the latest information on coronavirus, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
- Ignore online vaccination offers. There are currently no vaccines, pills, potions, lotions, lotions, or other prescription or over-the-counter products available to treat or treat Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) – online or in stores.
- Do your homework when it comes to donating, be it charities or crowdfunding sites. Don’t let anyone rush you to donate. If someone wants to donate in cash, gift card, or money transfer, don’t do it.
Remember, following digital hygiene practices during the coronavirus outbreak is (almost) as important as remembering to wash your hands.