The FTC has also provided guidance to help consumers identify potential scams related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The guidance advises consumers of specific, COVID-19 related scams, including:
- online sellers claiming to offer common, high-demand household products but not fulfilling orders after payment is made;
- soliciting funds and donations for fake charities; and
- phishing emails with links to purported health information from organizations such as the CDC or WHO with malware or seeking consumers’ social security numbers and other personal information.
The FTC recommends consumers research the names of charities and online businesses before making orders or sending money, and also ensure that their computer and mobile device security software is up to date and running. In addition, the FTC also released tips to help consumers avoid coronavirus scams, which include scrutinizing unfamiliar links or information requests, not clicking on links from unfamiliar sources and ignoring online offers for COVID-19 vaccinations.
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