A Warning About COVID-19 Scams
RI Attorney General Warns Residents to Be Wary
During these times of worry and concern about the global pandemic that is the coronavirus, we must all take steps to be careful and avoid unnecessary contact that might cause transmission of this highly contagious virus.
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We also must be wary of predators who will try to take advantage of these stressful times, and prey upon the fears and anxiety many of us have regarding the economic stresses related to this pandemic. State’s Attorney General Peter Neronha has issued a warning about phone an email scams related to the stimulus checks mentioned during the daily press conferences with the President, but which have not yet been voted on and implemented by our Congress.
According to Attorney General Neronha:
"The checks do not exist yet. If you receive a message promising you that money, it's a scam," said Attorney General Neronha. "These are challenging times and many people could use some relief. Unfortunately, there are scammers who will try and take advantage of people in need. If you see it, call us. The more information we get from the public, the more we can get the word out to help others."
So what can you do? Be vigilant and wary of anyone soliciting you on the phone, by email, or even ringing your doorbell.
Please remember the following:
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Checks have not been issued, and we are still awaiting approval from Congress.
The Federal Government will NEVER ask you to share personal information like your Social Security Number, or banking or credit card information over the phone, via an email, or an SMS text message.
The Federal Government will NEVER ask you to pay money upfront to get your check faster.
NEVER SHARE your personal information over the phone, via email or an SMS text, even if that person addresses you by name, or sounds like they may know you.
NEVER click on a link from an unfamiliar email, or SMS text message.
If you suspect fraud, hang up immediately and block that number from your phone, or mark the email as spam. And be sure to notify the Attorney General’s Office.
Other scams and misinformation include:
Phone calls or emails from people claiming to be from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), or the Department of Health wanting to contact you. They don’t…they’re too busy trying to contain this virus.
People claiming to be health inspectors who want to gain access to your home to test you and your family for the coronavirus. Currently, testing is only done at designated medical facilities, and only IF a person has been complaining of symptoms, been exposed to someone with a positive diagnosis, and has been directed by a physician to be tested.
There is no vaccine, yet. Anyone telling you otherwise, is running a scam.
Organizations looking for donations that you’ve never heard of before. If you’re not sure, do not send money.
Please be smart, and do all that you can to protect your family, your identity, and your wallet as we all work to get through these challenging events.