As unfortunate as it may be, there are always going to be people out there who try to take advantage of others.
This year, in the midst of a global pandemic, Covid-19 scams have cost Americans millions of dollars.
As we continue navigating through this unchartered territory, we have made changes to protect ourselves and others, such as wearing masks and staying home when possible. We also have to be mindful of the scams that exist so that we can continue to protect ourselves.
Here are some current Covid-19 scams.
Covid-19 Tests and Fake Cures
There are many people out there who want to take a test out of fear or worry. Scammers will advertise for a Covid-19 test available to be purchased online. These are fake and should not be purchased. If you have questions about the legitimacy of a product, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) provides updates on available tests.
Also, there are fake products available that are marketed as being the cure for the coronavirus. These are also fake and should not be taken seriously.
Fake Cures
From fake fad diets to cures for diseases, there are so many scams out there that prey on those who are looking for an easy fix; Covid-19 hasn’t been an exception. There has been a vast amount of misinformation available suggesting that taking certain products can help treat or prevent you from catching the virus.
Recently, many people were taking a product called chloroquine phosphate, which is traditionally sold to treat parasites in aquarium fish because there was a rumor that it treated Covid-19. If ingested, this can cause serious illness or death in humans. As of now, there is no vaccine or a “cure” just yet. Be wary of “miracle cures” out there, especially if it didn’t come from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
IT Scams
When you’re working from home and using the internet, you’re bound to run into technical difficulties sooner or later. Many people may feel hesitant to have a stranger in their home over the fear of germs, which may lead them to do a quick Google search of their provider’s tech support line. Unfortunately, scammers are hoping that you do this. To protect yourself, make sure the company’s number you dial is a legitimate number by going on their website directly and looking on their “Contact Us” page.
People Posing As Co-workers
From a scammer’s point of view, the work-from-home scenario is a perfect way to break into a network, take over an email account and begin sending emails requesting access to confidential information they have no business having access to. If you receive an email from a co-worker and you think something sounds suspicious, validate over the phone.
Fake Small Business Loan Sites
So many small businesses are struggling to make ends meet right now. Scammers recognize this and understand that the payroll protection program and the economic Injury disaster loan processes can be confusing. Scammers will create fake websites and encourage the applicant to send a “down payment” in exchange for a government loan. The only site you should go to for a government loan is the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Physical Document Destruction Protects You Offline
Physical document destruction is an additional means of protecting yourself. Shredding your confidential documents and anything that contains personal information will help protect you against identity thieves and fraudsters.
Contact Document Destruction of Virginia today to find out more or request a quote online.