Stay Alert for Scams Amid the Coronavirus Pandemic

Scammers work hard to get us in a heightened emotional state where decision-making is compromised. Con artists refer to this as getting their targets “under the ether.”

Amid the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, many of us are already experiencing that heightened emotional state, which means part of the scammer’s job is already done. Not only will we see a barrage of scams related to Coronavirus cures, vaccines, economic help, can’t-miss investment opportunities and the like. We will also see a spike in unrelated scams because the criminals will seek to take advantage of us being “under the ether.” Be extra vigilant out there and engage your inner skeptic – now more than ever.

Hang up on robocalls.
Scammers are using illegal robocalls to pitch everything from scam Coronavirus treatments to work‐at‐home schemes.

Verify information.
Contact trusted sources to confirm information is correct. For the most up‐to‐date information about the Coronavirus, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at www.cdc.gov.

Know who you’re buying from.
Online sellers may claim to have in‐demand products, like cleaning, household, and health and medical supplies when, in fact, they don’t. Don’t click on links from sources you don’t know. They could download viruses onto your computer or device.

Do your homework.
Don’t let anyone rush you into making a donation. If someone wants donations in cash, by gift card, or by wiring money, don’t do it.

Be a fraud fighter! If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.

Report scams to local law enforcement. For help from AARP, call 1-877-908-3360 or visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network at www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork.