Residents Warned To Beware Of Coronavirus Scams

TAMPA BAY, FL — Whenever there's a crisis, scammers preying on fears will inevitably follow.

Pinellas County Consumer Protection is advising residents to look out for and report scammers exploiting residents’ fears around Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Exploitative tactics including phishing, fraudulent donation requests and attempted sales of health products with unfounded claims have been reported.

Here are a few tips to help keep you safe online:

• Don’t click on links from sources you don’t know. It could download a virus onto your computer or device. Make sure the anti-malware and anti-virus software on your computer is up to date.
• Watch for emails claiming to be from the CDC or experts saying they have information about the virus. For the most up-to-date information about the Coronavirus, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization.
• Ignore online offers for vaccinations. If you see ads touting prevention, treatment or cure claims for the Coronavirus, ask yourself: if there’s been a medical breakthrough, would you be hearing about it for the first time through an ad or sales pitch?
• Do your homework when it comes to donations, whether through charities or crowdfunding sites. Don’t let anyone rush you into donating. If someone wants donations in cash, by gift card or by wiring money, don’t do it.
• Purchase from sellers you know and trust or have an established business relationship with.
• Check out a charity before you donate. All charities soliciting within the state of Florida (with some exclusions) are required to register with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
• Beware of high-pressure sales tactics or any representations about a product that may seem too good to be true.
• Residents can file a complaint if they feel they were overcharged for applicable products. Pinellas County Consumer Protection coordinates with the appropriate partner agencies to investigate and prosecute unfair business practices.

For the latest information on the status of Coronavirus (COVID-19) in the area, visit the Florida Department of Health.