Illinois Attorney General Warns of Ebola-Related Email and Charitable Scams

It was only a matter a time before the fraudsters cooked up email and charity scams tied to the Ebola outbreak.

Attorney General Lisa Madigan announced that her office has received emails titled “People being quarantined” that purport to be an “Ebola Pandemic Update” and include a link to view a so-called “civilian crisis protocol.” The email may contain links that could infect a user’s computer.

Other email scams offer “surplus personal protection kits” for $29 that allege to provide infection defense specifically for members of emergency response teams and law enforcement agencies.

Madigan is warning Illinois residents to be on the lookout for these types of unsolicited or suspicious emails. Consumers who receive such emails should delete them immediately. Do not open or click on any links in the email.

“We suspect these emails are the handiwork of scammers seeking to take advantage of people’s understandable fear and anxiety surrounding this international public health risk,” Madigan said. “It’s extremely important that you delete these messages and instead consult legitimate resources for more information about prevention measures underway.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is posting regular updates regarding the federal government’s response to the outbreak, including tips on how to minimize the risk of infection, and the Illinois Department of Public Health recently announced its protocol in the event of a suspected Ebola case in Illinois.

The attorney general’s office is also urging Illinois residents to exercise caution when donating to charitable aid efforts tied to the Ebola outbreak. “Look alike” websites resembling legitimate charitable organizations and international aid efforts are popping up. These websites often ask for personal financial information.

Beware also of high pressure, unsolicited phone calls where the solicitor asks for cash payments and volunteers to “send someone over” to pick up your donation.

Consumers should verify the origins of any email or text messages they receive soliciting donations for the Ebola aid efforts.

And finally, don’t assume that charity messages posted on Facebook and other social media are legitimate. Research the charitable organization yourself.

Charities and fundraisers are required to register with the Illinois Attorney General. Also, consumers can check the following resources to learn more about specific charities, including: IRS Select Check, BBB Wise Giving Alliance, Charity Navigator, GuideStar and Foundation Center.

Consumers are encouraged to report suspicious solicitations to Illinois Attorney General’s Charitable Trust Bureau by calling 312-814-2595. To report any potential scam to the Ebola outbreak, contact Madigan’s Consumer Fraud Bureau toll free at 800-386-5638 (Chicago); 800-243-0618 (Springfield), and 800-243-0607.