Fraudsters are nothing if not opportunists. Right now, the “opportunity” they’re seizing is the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in an attempt to capitalize on people’s concerns and uncertainty. We’re actively monitoring the situation so we can help you stay safe.
The Federal Trade Commission and other consumer protection agencies have reported on the following types of scams:
- Emails claiming to be from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) or World Health Organization (WHO) with attachments supposedly containing information about the coronavirus.
- Offers for bogus coronavirus treatments, including vaccinations and cures.
- Requests for donations to support coronavirus victims.
- Promotions suggesting certain companies’ stock will rise in value because they can detect or stop the coronavirus.
- Messages allegedly from human resources departments with a link to affected regions.
- Emails appearing to be from government entities requesting that you provide sensitive personal data. Legitimate agencies will not request this information via email.
- Emails asking people to download programs to help speed up the process of finding a coronavirus cure.
- Robocalls informing patients they’ve tested positive for the coronavirus.
Here are some actions you can take to stay safe from these scams:
- Don’t click links in emails or texts from people you don’t know.
- Be wary of coronavirus “investment opportunities” or "pre-qualified" or "fast and easy" loan offers.
- Be skeptical of miracle cures.
- If you receive an email claiming to be a company you know, but something doesn’t look or sound right, don’t click any links or open any attachments. Look up their official website online and contact them directly.
- Never purchase gift cards to pay for fees, fines, or job opportunities you receive online or over the phone.
- Never share sensitive personal information such as Social Security number, account numbers, driver's license, Medicare information, or login information. Legitimate companies will not solicit this information from you via email.
- Thoroughly research donation requests, and make sure your computer’s antivirus software is doing its job.
If you’re seeking more information, it’s best that you initiate the process because then you know you’re using safe links and acquiring legitimate information. Here are a few great resources:
Rest assured, you have a support team at Redwood Credit Union. If you have questions or concerns about coronavirus scams, please email our fraud team at fraud@redwoodcu.org, or log in to your RCU account to send a secure message.
To learn more about recent scams please visit our Security Center and read our articles about Email, Text or Phone Scams.