The PBA received this information from the Police Department:
Some of the scams I’ve seen across the country thus far are:
- Cellphone apps providing a COVID-19 tracking map. Running in the background of these apps is a customized version of SpyMax which allows control of your phone’s information. Information suggests as many as 30 of these fraudulent apps have been identified.
- Phishing emails and phone calls impersonating entities such as the World Health Organization and government authorities.
- Misinformation being sent via text, social media and emails.
- Products claiming to be a vaccine or cure for COVID-19.
- Claims that you can reserve COVID-19 vaccine and get ahead of others.
- Investment scams claiming COVID-19 has created financial opportunities.
- Shopping sites readily offering products you know are nearly impossible to get.
- Calls claiming to represent the federal government's proposed stimulus package.
- Persons in lab coats offering to perform COVID-19 testing door to door.
- The American Red Cross is not offering home tests.
- And no you don't need to buy COVID-19 software to protect your computer from the virus
Protect yourself...
- Don’t let anyone pressure you into making any decisions.
- Don’t click on internet sources you don’t know.
- Never respond to unsolicited emails, text messages or social media messages from strangers. Immediately delete them.
- KEEP YOUR COMPUTER SECURITY (ANTI-VIRUS AND MALWARE) SOFTWARE UP TO DATE.
- If you plan to make any donations make sure you know the charity and assure your donation is going to its intended cause.