CNext Blog

Protect Yourself from Coronavirus Scams

During this unprecedented time, don’t let yourself fall victim to scams that criminals are using concerning the  Coronavirus. Here are some tips to keep your finances safe:

• Be leery of any emails or texts indicating that you can receive assistance by providing account numbers or  credit card information for funds to be sent to you. As programs for assistance are made available by the government, the appropriate agencies will provide information via reputable news outlets. A local or State agency or the IRS website should be consulted for accurate information concerning benefit payments and other types of assistance for which you may qualify.
• Be careful of scams seeking donations for “charity.” Only use a charity that you have verified as legitimate and never provide donations via cash, gift cards, or wire transfer.
• Use caution when receiving unsolicited emails selling supplies. Make sure your anti-malware and anti-virus protection is up-to-date and never click links or open attachments within emails from unknown or unverified sources.
• Beware of those selling false “cures.” Always obtain information related to COVID-19 from well-known sources such as state health officials or the CDC.
• Stay alert and don’t rush into any financial transaction. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
• If you believe you’ve been targeted in any scam, report it to law enforcement as soon as possible.
• Please call your local branch if you believe any of your information has been compromised.

Check out more tips from the Federal Trade Commission to help avoid Coronavirus scams https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/coronavirus-scams-what-ftc-doing