AARP Supports Florida House Bill 9 Seeking to Protect Consumers Against Vaccine Fraud as the Pandemic Rages

As COVID-19 continues to devastate people across Florida, many see vaccines as a sign of hope. Unfortunately, scammers are looking to capitalize on the news of the moment, especially if the headlines can instill fear and motivate people to act. While scientists and medical professionals are working overtime to find ways to test for and stem the spread of the virus, the Federal Trade Commission warns that bad actors are working hard to use this as an opportunity to deceive consumers and steal their money or sensitive information.

AARP FL State Director Jeff Johnson said, “After a year of uncertainty and mounting isolation, older Floridians are more vulnerable than ever. Many view the vaccine as the key to relief. Florida ranks second in the nation for fraud, and House Bill 9 is a step in the right direction, allowing our state to take swift action to stop and prosecute scammers looking to take advantage of others during a pandemic.”

While some COVID-19 or other pandemic vaccine scams may be criminalized under current law, not all scams qualify as a crime and stopping them often proves difficult. That is why AARP supports Florida House Bill 9, which allows the Florida Attorney General’s Office to take swift action against bad actors operating in the Sunshine State.

For up-to-date information about Florida’s vaccine rollout, visit www.aarp.org/flvaccine. AARP’s Fraud Watch Network offers many resources to help consumers learn how to spot scams and prevent them altogether. Visit www.aarp.org/fraud to learn more about coronavirus scams.