Police Warn Against Coronavirus-Related Scams

PETALUMA, CA — The Petaluma Police Department said while it is not uncommon for the department to receive daily calls regarding various scams and fraudulent activity, the coronavirus has created an increase in phone, mail and internet scams from fraudsters who pretend to offer services related to the pandemic.

"We do not want our community members to be victimized," Petaluma police said Wednesday in a social media post. "Our goal is to alert the public to some of the most common trends, so that you may protect yourself, your family and neighbors. Be on alert for persons or organizations requesting payment in the form of prepaid gift cards."

Petaluma Police Department warned of the following COVID-19 Scams:

• Impostors who claim to be a clinic or hospital; They request payments for medical treatment for someone you know.
• Scammers who offer to sell fake or non-existent COVID-19 testing kits
• Fake websites offering to sell medical supplies such as masks and hand sanitizer, etc.
• Criminals who go door to door claiming to be medical staff who can give you “in person” services.

Anyone who has been solicited for any of the above-listed scams or any other suspected scams, or know someone else who has been solicited, is instructed to not give out any personal information and to report the incident to Petaluma Police Department's main line at 707-778-4372.