Scammers and Fraudsters Look for a New Edge With COVID-19

By Donavan Cox

In Times of Crisis, Scammers and Fraudsters Look for a New Edge

As the COVID-19 virus pandemic continues to impact the United States and on a global scale, Scammers are using the uncertainty and confusion to prey on the public's virus related fears. There have been many reports of fraudulent phone scams, websites, phishing emails related to charitable contributions, general financial relief, airline refunds, fake cures, testing kits, and vaccines, among many others. With the release of this information, we thought this would be an excellent time to remind our friends and clients to be diligent and careful as ever regarding fraudulent emails, texts, phone calls and websites you may visit. These Scammers are always on the hunt to take advantage of good folks, especially during confusing and chaotic times. 

Please see the links below to review pages with critical information regarding various scams that are running rampant during the current pandemic and tips on how to report them. The more knowledge and resources we have regarding the various scams that are out there, the quicker we can spot them and protect ourselves, friends, and Families from becoming victims of fraud.   

Federal Communications Commission - COVID Scams 

Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information - Spotting Scams

Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information - Possible Stimulus Payments

Tripwire - State of Security - COVID-19 Scam Roundup

Norton Antivirus Security Software - CoronaVirus Phishing Emails examples and how to protect against them

If you are ever uncertain of any communication, always err on the side of caution. When in doubt, call a friend or give us a call, we'll review and assess any concerns together. 

Thank you for your time. Stay Safe. Stay well and Healthy. 

Aberle Investment Management