In a recent article published by the FBI – Sacramento Calif. on7:39 PM EDT March 20, 2020, there are hackers claiming to provide information on the virus; donating to a charity online or through social media; contributing to a crowdfunding campaign; purchasing products online; or giving up your personal information in order to receive money or other benefits.
The FBI encourages you to be vigilant to avoid being scammed. Double check every email, text and social media message that you receive to make sure it is not a scam.
The FBI said the public should look out for fake CDC emails, phishing emails, and counterfeit treatments and equipment.
They are advising people to watch out for emails claiming to be from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or other organizations claiming to offer information on the virus. The FBI said people SHOULD NOT click links or open attachments they don’t recognize.
“Fraudsters can use links in emails to deliver malware to your computer to steal personal information or to lock your computer and demand payment,” the PSA says. “Be wary of websites and apps claiming to track COVID-19 cases worldwide. Criminals are using malicious websites to infect and lock devices until payment is received.”
People should also beware of phishing emails asking to verify personal information in order to receive an economic stimulus check from the government.
“Government agencies are not sending unsolicited emails seeking your private information in order to send you money,” the FBI said.
Phishing emails may also claim to be related to:
- Charitable contributions
- General financial relief
- Airline carrier refunds
- Fake cures and vaccines
- Fake testing kits
The FBI also wants people to be cautious of anyone selling products that claim to prevent, treat, diagnose, or cure COVID-19.
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