(Washington, D.C.) The FBI is warning Americans against scams related to the coronavirus pandemic, including fake Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emails, and counterfeit equipment or treatment for sale.
Americans should be aware of emails claiming to be from the CDC or other organizations offering information on COVID-19, the FBI says. Do not click links or open attachments you do not recognize. Fraudsters can use links in emails to deliver malware to your computer to steal personal information or to lock your computer and demand payment. The FBI also warns against websites and apps claiming to track COVID-19 cases worldwide. Criminals are using malicious websites to infect and lock devices until payment is received.
Scam emails asking for personal information in order to receive an economic stimulus check from the government have also been circulating. Scam emails also may claim to be related to charitable contributions, general financial relief, airline refunds, and fake cures, vaccines and testing kits.
The FBI urges Americans to be cautious of anyone selling products that claim to prevent, treat, diagnose or cure COVID-19. Be alert to counterfeit products such as sanitizing products and personal protective equipment, including N95 respirator masks, goggles, full face shields, protective gowns and gloves.
Americans are cautioned to protect their data and do research before clicking on links purporting to provide information on the virus; donating to a charity online or through social media; contributing to a crowdfunding campaign; or purchasing products online.
