DC Police Warn Public To Beware Of Coronavirus Scams

WASHINGTON, DC — The Metropolitan Police Department is warning the public to beware of scams related to the new coronavirus, also known as COVID-19. Police say that scammers are taking advantage of the current public health crisis and targeting District residents in a number of ways.

Members of the public have notified MPD that individuals are knocking on doors and trying to sell "coronavirus insurance." Police believe these interactions to be fraudulent, according to a release.

MPD is warning the public to beware of the following scams:

• Individuals offering to sell treatment for COVID-19, such as cures, vaccines, and insurance.
• Online sales of high demand medical supplies such as surgical masks.
• Telephone calls or emails demanding funds for COVID-19 treatment or other medical services.
• Solicitation of donations for those affected by COVID-19.
• Phishing telephone calls, text messages, or emails from national and global health authorities asking to provide personal and/or financial information.
• COVID-19 apps or downloads that can potentially compromise users’ devices and personal information with malware.
• Investments claiming to prevent, detect, or cure COVID-19.

Anyone who has been a victim or has information of a suspected COVID-19 fraud or scam is asked to call Metropolitan Police Department Financial and Cyber Crimes Unit at 202-727-4159 or mpd.fraud-unit@dc.gov.