It’s sad, but not surprising, that the fastest-growing scams in recent days and weeks are related to the global Coronavirus pandemic. During times of extreme uncertainty and panic, research has shown that many of us are more susceptible to clicking on links and/or attachments in emails that appear to be related to the issue causing the panic.
Coronavirus, for obvious reasons, is dominating the news and impacting the lives of more and more people each day, and scam artists are ready to take advantage.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has provided some tips to help you protect your identity and your finances:
When you don’t know the source DON’T click on links in emails
The risk is clicking on a link that could download a virus onto your computer or other device. It is also important to make sure your anti-malware and anti-virus software is up to date.
Scammers often send emails that appear to be from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) or other experts
Be on the lookout for emails that claim to be from the CDC or other experts that say they have information regarding the Coronavirus. It is better to ignore the email and instead visit the website for the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) or the World Health Organization (WHO) which will have the most up to date information on the virus.
Ignore online offers for Coronavirus vaccinations
Ads that boast prevention, treatment, or cure claims for the Coronavirus should immediately raise a red flag. Consider the fact that if there’s been a medical breakthrough, the first place you hear about it would not be in an ad or some other sales pitch.
Unfortunately, making donations requires doing your homework, too
Whether through sites for charities or through crowdfunding sites, it’s important to not let someone rush you into making a donation. And, if someone wants donations in cash, by gift card, or by wiring money, DON’T do it.
Be alert to “investment opportunities”
The United States 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 Coronavirus and that the stock of these companies will dramatically increase in value as a result.