Myths
You may see some rumors about untrue side effects online or on social media. Make sure any time you see a claim about a side effect that you check the source of that claim. This video has tips on how to figure out if a claim online is true or not: https://youtu.be/UIov_crnFt8
The Mayo Clinic debunks COVID-19 myths at Debunking COVID-19 (coronavirus) myths - Mayo Clinic
The World Health Organization offers advice on more than 30 myths at Mythbusters (who.int)
Scams
Fraud Alert: Be aware that criminals are attempting to exploit COVID-19 worldwide through a variety of scams.
- Be on the lookout for antibody testing fraud schemes. Never share your personal or health information to anyone other than known and trusted medical professionals. Learn more about what to avoid.
- Be cautious of unsolicited healthcare fraud schemes of testing and treatment through emails, phone calls, or in person. The U.S. have medical professionals and scientist working hard to find a cure, approved treatment, and vaccine for COVID-19. Learn more about what to avoid
- From offering miracle cures to claiming you get a special economic stimulus payment, there are people out there whose sole aim is to try to steal your money and livelihood during these uncertain times. https://coronavirus.wa.gov/what-you-need-know/coronavirus-scams
- Be wary of unsolicited telephone calls and e-mails from individuals claiming to be IRS and Treasury employees. Remember IRS first form of communications is by mail - not by phone. Learn more about fraudulent schemes related to IRS
- Be aware of unemployment insurance fraud and learn the steps to take if you suspect criminals have exploited your identity. Learn more about unemployment insurance fraud.
Criminals will likely continue to use new methods to exploit COVID-19 worldwide. Stay alert and stay informed about common fraud schemes related to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Find out more about types of scams.
If you think you are a victim of a scam or attempted fraud involving COVID-19, you can report it without leaving your home by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General is alerting the public about fraud schemes related to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Scammers are using telemarketing calls, text messages, social media platforms, and door-to-door visits to perpetrate COVID-19-related scams.
Fraudsters are offering COVID-19 tests, HHS grants, and Medicare prescription cards in exchange for personal details, including Medicare information. However, these services are unapproved and illegitimate.
These scammers use the coronavirus pandemic to benefit themselves, and beneficiaries face potential harm. The personal information collected can be used to fraudulently bill federal health care programs and commit medical identity theft.
Read how to protect yourself at: Fraud Alert: COVID-19 SCAMS | Office of Inspector General | U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (hhs.gov)