Watch out for scams
During these times, my priority is to share information about COVID-19 with the community. I want this campaign to be a resource for you and your family.
Tough times often bring out the best in people. I see this every day in the health care workers, first responders, educators, grocery store workers, delivery drivers, child care providers, and others who are working hard in our region. I have also visited local companies that are retooling their businesses to provide critical supplies.
But unfortunately, times of crisis also bring about scammers looking to make a profit and target Americans. We must be diligent in protecting the most vulnerable in our society.
COVID-19 scams have already cost consumers more than $12 million.
Be on the lookout for:
- Fake cures and vaccines for COVID-19.
- Phishing emails claiming to be from the World Health Organization or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- Calls or emails posing as the Treasury Department offering grants or stimulus payments in exchange for personal information, or a fee or charge.
- Malicious websites and apps using COVID-19-related information to gain access to your devices and lock them until payment is received.
- Donation requests from groups you are unfamiliar with.
I am using social media to get you updates on COVID-19 and what I am doing to help workers, families, and small businesses. This Friday at 11:30 a.m. Pacific Time I am hosting another Facebook Live event. I hope you will join!
Stay safe,
Rick
