Avoid COVID-19 scams

Scammers are finding new ways to defraud people using COVID-19-related scams. Scams may be online or in person, such as through testing sites, emails, telemarketing calls and text messages.

Protect yourself from COVID-19 scams with these important tips.

Get accurate COVID-19 information

• Always check official government websites for up-to-date COVID-19 information. Examples include the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, also known as the CDC, and the World Health Organization, or WHO.

Keep your personal and financial information safe

• Be cautious of emails and text messages with COVID-19-related attachments and hyperlinks. Messages may have malicious files or links to trick you into revealing sensitive information.
• Buy FDA-approved COVID-19 test kits from legitimate retailers. Over-the-counter and at-home tests are available at many reputable and trustworthy retail stores and pharmacies.
• Don’t click on links from sources you don't know. This may lead to viruses being downloaded onto your computer or device.
• Don’t share your information if someone promises you free access to the COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccine is covered at no cost to you.

For Medicare members

• Do not give out your Medicare Number for COVID-19 test kits. Scammers are selling fake and unauthorized at-home COVID-19 test kits in exchange for personal and medical information.
• Medicare will not call you to offer COVID-19-related products, services or benefit review. Be cautious of interactions that ask you for your personal, medical and financial information.

If you suspect a COVID-19 scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission online or call 1-800-HHS-TIPS (1-800-447-8477).

Sources: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Department of Homeland Security