Fairfax County Officials Warn Of Coronavirus Scams

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA – Fairfax County is warning residents to stay alert for scams related to the new coronavirus have been flooding email inboxes, text messages and social media platforms.

Scammers have been setting up fake charity projects on these platforms and attempting to sell fake safety measures and unproven treatments, according to a post on the Fairfax County Emergency Information website posted on Tuesday. Some emails even claim to be from the World Health Organization or the Centers for Disease Control.

Officials said a recent scam email, allegedly from the World Health Organization, targeted fears with a link that was labeled "safety measures." When a user clicks on the link, it prompts them to enter their email address and password to download the safety measure document. In reality, it's a ploy to install a virus on your computer.

What to do to stay safe:

• Do not click on links from sources you do not know
• Use anti-malware and anti-virus software on your computer
• Beware of emails claiming to be from the CDC or WHO
• Ignore online offers for vaccinations
• Do your homework when it comes to donations through charities or crowdfunding sites.

In addition to email and phone scams, there is another coronavirus-related scam that alleges a person's Social Security benefits will be suspended because of the Social Security Administration's recent office closures.

In reality, the Social Security Administration says it will not suspend or decrease Social Security benefit payments due to the pandemic.

The scam works by a person receiving a letter in the mail stating their payments will be suspended unless they call the phone number in the letter. Once the person calls, the scammer asks for their personal and financial information in order to maintain regular benefit payment during the office closure.

What to do to stay safe:

• Do not respond to any correspondence regarding SSA benefits cutoffs
• Report the scam to Social Security scams at oig.ssa.gov