Local news and police departments are warning of a new scam where consumers are receiving a text message claiming they have come in contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19, or is showing symptoms of the virus. The text instructs the individual to self-isolate, and provides a link for the consumer to click for more information. Clicking on this link provides a gateway for fraudsters to contact the person in an attempt to trick them into sending money or personal information and/or downloads a virus onto their phone.
If you receive text messages stating you may have been exposed to the Coronavirus, do not click any links and delete the message immediately.
Additionally, there has been an increase in robocall scams. Bots with pre-recorded messages are calling people with messages that:
- Promise free Coronavirus testing
- Promise supplies like sanitizers, hand wash, toilet paper and face masks delivered to their home
- Alarm them that their social security payments will be suspended as a result of the Coronavirus
- Offer sanitation services for their home at low prices All of these scams request that the person click a number on their phone, directing them to the proper menu. If you receive calls like this, simply hang up.
In addition to notifying local law enforcement, please contact us if you are concerned that you may have fallen victim to a COVID-19 scam, so that we can assist with protecting your accounts and identity.
