Monson Savings Bank Shares Warning Signs of COVID-19 Vaccine and Cure Scams
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented fears for many of us. With COVID-19 threatening our health and the health of our loved ones, some of us are willing to do anything to get vaccinated or try anything to find a cure. Criminals are exploiting these fears with COVID-19 vaccine and COVID-19 cure scams. Monson Savings Bank is sharing the warning signs to protect you from these insensitive scams that could cheat you out of your hard earned money and even be harmful to your health.
COVID-19 Scams
- At this time, there is no known cure for COVID-19. If someone is trying to sell you a cure online or via a phone call, do not respond. This is definitely a scam.
- Beware of legitimate companies making illegitimate claims. The Food and Drug Administration and the Federal Trade Commission have distributed many warning letters to companies selling products that are being marketed to treat, cure, or prevent COVID-19. Some of these products include vitamin C IV’s, teas, essential oils, and colloidal silver.
Vaccine Scams
- You do not pay money to have your name put on a list to get vaccinated. If you are being asked for payment then this is a scam.
- If someone calls you asking for your social security number, Medicaid number, or credit card number so they can put you on a list to get vaccinated, you are most likely being contacted by a fraudster.
- There have been reports of Eventbrite sites disguised as Health Departments. These pages pose as a place to set up a vaccination appointment, but they are charging money for fake vaccination appointments. Vaccination appointments are free to make.
How to report a COVID-19 Scam
To report a COVID-19 scam, go to reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/
A top priority of Monson Savings Bank is to protect the public from fraud and scams. By sharing this information we hope to save people from falling victim to COVID-19 scams during these already trying times. Frequently visit the Monson Savings Bank Safety and Security blog category to continue to learn ways to stay protected from all types of scams, fraud and identity theft.
