With the availability of COVID-19 vaccines, 2021 is likely to see scammers continue their efforts to steal personal information. While the early COVID-19 schemes surrounded bogus testing and medical supply offers, the rollout of vaccines is looking to be another angle for unscrupulous fraudsters to attempt to take advantage of the situation.
Both the Federal Trade Commission and the US Department of Health & Human Services have issued consumer advisories surrounding this newest threat which preys upon a citizen’s interest in gaining access to the vaccine. Scammers, posing as government officials, will call, text, email, or even personally visit the residence of individuals, offering them early access to the vaccine in exchange for a monetary payment and/or their Medicare information. Both government agencies stress that offers of this type are a scam and should be reported.
Report COVID-19 Scams
If you believe someone is trying to scam you, report the activity to the US Department of Health & Human Services or the Federal Trade Commission.
Fraud takes all forms. ICW Group’s Special Investigations Unit encourages you to stay vigilant in monitoring for schemes aimed at stealing your personal information or the money directly from your wallet.
