Coronavirus Scams: What is Going Around that You Should be Aware of
There are so many scams involving the coronavirus.
The top few that you need to be aware of and avoid are:
There is a phishing e-mail circulating that is asking you to give personal information because the FTC Chair Lina Khan wants to give you Coronavirus relief funds. The e-mail requests your name, date of birth, and mailing address. This is NOT TRUE. Lina Khan is not sending you an e-mail. The FTC is not distributing coronavirus economic stimulus relief or money to people.
Buying fake vaccination cards is illegal and could get you fined or even land you in jail. Don't buy them. Don't make them. Don't use fake cards of anything.
Do not buy coronavirus stem cell therapy. A chiropractor and several of their companies, including Stem Cell Institute of America are being sued by the FTC and the Georgia Office of the Attorney General for falsely advertising that stem cell therapy can treat coronavirus and a number of other illnesses.
Do your research. Think critically and don't trust a website or e-mail just because it looks professional.
Here are some additional resources and information on the Coronavirus Scams that are out there, be prepared:
-https://www.fcc.gov/covid-scams
-https://www.usa.gov/covid-scams
-https://oig.hhs.gov/fraud/consumer-alerts/fraud-alert-covid-19-scams/
-https://www.consumerfinance.gov/coronavirus/avoiding-scams/
If you believe you are the victim of a scam and need legal assistance, call an attorney and seek advice. If you choose us, you can call our Helpline at 501-376-3423, Monday-Friday, 9 am - 12 pm or 1-4 pm.
AUTHOR: CECILLE DOAN, STAFF ATTORNEY FOR THE CENTER FOR ARKANSAS LEGAL SERVICES