Protect Yourself Against COVID-19 Scams

The recent coronavirus pandemic has had a major impact on the United States, arguably on a par with the 9-11 terror attacks. Government spending has been high and the virus’ social, economic, political and cultural manifestations are substantial and will be long-lived.

People feel vulnerable, especially against an insidious enemy that cannot be seen. They want to find ways to empower themselves and reduce their sense of powerlessness.

In this environment of uncertainly and fear, there are disreputable people preying upon people’s desires to protect themselves. Various scams have surfaced that may have negative economic and even health effects.

Virginia’s Office of the Attorney General (OAG) has identified the following types of scams that are intended to exploit fears of the virus:

• sales offers for test kits, treatment or prevention drugs; some of which are ineffective or even dangerous
• sending requests for donations, particularly cash donations, gift cards or wire transfers
• requesting personal information, such as a social security or bank account number, to sign you up for a coronavirus relief payment
• price gouging on scarce supplies
• spreading false information, which can lead to unwise decisions
• sending out phishing emails containing malware or redirecting recipients to malicious websites

If you suspect you are dealing with price gouging or scammers, you may contact NOVA Police at 703-764-5000 or email novapolice@nvcc.edu. You may also contact the OAG Consumer Protection Section at 1-800-552-9963 or online at www.ag.virginia.gov/consumer-protection.