The New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs is alerting consumers to be aware of a number of apparent scams related to COVID-19.
To avoid this and some of the tactics being reported as possible scams, the Division recommends the following:
- Don’t let CDC imposters into your home.
Representatives from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are not going door-to-door seeking information or conducting surveillance on COVID-19. Imposters should be reported to local authorities and the Division.
- Don’t fall for fake cures.
Beware of in-store or online advertisements for products that claim to cure or prevent COVID-19 or other similar offers. No cure or preventative medicine has been approved for sale.
- Look out for phishing emails. Cybercriminals may take advantage of global concern and interest in COVID-19 to try to convince email recipients to open links or attachments that may direct them to malicious websites or deliver malware.
Stay away from COVID-19 related information that does not come from a trusted source, to avoid exposing your personal information.
- Keep in mind not everything online may be factual.
The internet is full of information, but be mindful of its accuracy. As false reports spread regarding the origination and spread of COVID-19, rely only on trusted sources for information.
- Be wary of unsolicited calls.
Whether they are offering health insurance, including to supplement Medicare or Medicaid benefits, or a cure or treatment for COVID-19, refrain from sharing your personal information over the phone, unless you have initiated the call.
- Avoid internet adoption scams.
Scammers are falsely misrepresenting themselves as CDC employees, and asking victims to send money overseas to adopt a pet being held at a quarantine station.
The CDC does not quarantine pets or would not ask for payment to bring an animal into the U.S.