Since COVID-19 vaccine demand is increasing and distribution varies by state, scammers are trying to take advantage of uncertainty and confusion to steal money and personal information from vaccine seekers. Scammers are using phone calls, text messages, social media platforms and door-to-door visits to commit these COVID-19-related scams.
Ways to Avoid COVID-19 Vaccine Scams
Keep in mind that there is no special list to receive early access to a COVID-19 vaccine, nor can you pay for immediate access to a vaccine.
Americans are encouraged to be patient as vaccine distribution and developments evolve. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has provided the following tips to help you avoid a vaccine-related scam:
What’s Next?
As you wait for your turn to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, it’s important to be patient and stay alert. Continue to monitor vaccine eligibility and availability from local health care providers.
If you’re aware of a COVID-19 vaccine scam or think you’ve been a victim of a vaccine scam, immediately let the FTC know at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Stay informed bysubscribing to consumer alerts from the FTC. We will keep you informed about any notable changes.
Source- Zywave, Inc.