Protect Yourself from Coronavirus Scams

Your personal financial security is a top priority for Your Survival Guy. Every time a major disaster or emergency occurs, financial fraudsters kick into high gear. They attempt to take advantage of the panic and confusion by conning you out of your hard-earned savings. The COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak is no different. Here’s some information you should keep in mind as the days go by. From the Federal Trade Commission (FTC):

The FTC and FDA have jointly issued warning letters to seven sellers of unapproved and misbranded products, claiming they can treat or prevent the Coronavirus. The companies’ products include teas, essential oils, and colloidal silver.

The FTC says the companies have no evidence to back up their claims — as required by law. The FDA says there are no approved vaccines, drugs or investigational products currently available to treat or prevent the virus. Read more about the warning letters.

Avoid Coronavirus Scams

Here are some tips to help you keep the scammers at bay:

• Don’t click on links from sources you don’t know. They could download viruses onto your computer or device.
• Watch for emails claiming to be from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or experts saying that have information about the virus. For the most up-to-date information about the Coronavirus, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
• Ignore online offers for vaccinations. There currently are no vaccines, pills, potions, lotions, lozenges or other prescription or over-the-counter products available to treat or cure Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) — online or in stores.
• Do your homework when it comes to donations, whether through charities or crowdfunding sites. 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.

Blog Posts

• FTC & FDA: Warnings sent to sellers of scam Coronavirus treatments
• Coronavirus: Scammers follow the headlines
• FTC, FDA warn companies making Coronavirus claims

Related Articles

• How to Recognize and Avoid Phishing Scams
• Miracle Health Claims
• How to Donate Wisely and Avoid Charity Scams

For more information from the FTC, visit their coronavirus scam page, here.

Once you’ve read the warnings from the FTC, it’s a good time to consider how you are protecting your identity and your accounts.