[Video Description: Ann Lynn: a black woman with chin length hair wearing a dark blue blouse against a light colored background with the curtain on the left.]

[VIDEO TRANSCRIPT]

BEWARE OF SCAMS! The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and FTC (Federal Trade Commision) warned people that several companies are trying to claim that their products can treat the virus. Cybercriminals are already out there, seeking to rip off money to make profits and preying on our need to help others. Here are some sample scams:

– Phone calls claiming to take reservations for a vaccine.
– Apps providing premium information on COVID-19 by hackers.

– Phishing emails from phony websites for the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
– Mobile phone apps that supposedly track the virus but actually contain malware.

– Fake sites with people pretending to be doctors offering to sell medical supplies.

– Phony charities seeking donations for vaccines for children from other countries.

– Opportunities for people to invest in “groundbreaking” research donation in cash or by gift card or wiring money.

– Special medicine that guarantees cure for Coronavirus “Special” pills, essential oils, lozenges, creams, etc.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF: Don’t click on links by email. Always visit the CDC’s website at www.cdc.gov and the WHO’s website at www.who.int to get information. Ignore offers for vaccinations — there are NO remedies right now, such as: vaccines, pills, potions, lotions, lozenges or other prescription or over-the-counter products available to treat or cure Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) online or in stores.

Caution when donating to charities — If someone wants donations in cash, by gift card, by wiring money, or by bitcoin, it’s likely a scam.

Don’t give out your information — you should never provide account numbers, Social Security numbers or any personal information to strangers. If you are not sure who is contacting you, hang up.

IF YOU THINK YOU HAVE BEEN DUPED: The Consumer Protection Bureau recommends you file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. Visit link: https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov

If you have sent money to a charity you suspect might be fraudulent, it’s a good idea to also contact your local police department.

If you feel your bank account information has been compromised, please contact your financial institution (bank) immediately so they may assist you. Stay safe and be careful.

Visit our website for more information: www.dcara.org/coronavirus

For more information visit: www.dcara.org/coronavirus