As the coronavirus pandemic continues, many people are facing mental health issues and other disorders because of increased substance abuse, anxiety, isolation, and financial problems. Although things are already very strenuous, scammers and fraudsters are still taking advantage of the situation, making this pandemic even more burdensome. Let’s go through some of the scams that happened during the pandemic to gain more awareness and ensure our safety.
Written by Navreen Dosanjh
Counterfeit Vaccines
Scammers are claiming that they have and are selling COVID-19 vaccines. These drugs are not approved and are a threat to the public. The counterfeit vaccines sold by private companies are claimed to be safe for treating coronavirus, although they violate many federal laws. Vaccines are only supplied and distributed at site-specific clinics, primary care clinics, and public health units. Please visit https://covid-19.ontario.ca/ontarios-covid-19-vaccination-plan to find distribution centers at the specific phase of time.
Coronavirus Messages
Scammers and fraudsters are sending many malicious text messages and emails. The trick is that the scammers label the messages with “COVID-19” or “Coronavirus” to make the receiver believe the message is important. Opening, clicking on any attachments, and sending back any personal information are the tricks scammers use to gain information about people. These messages can also contain information about medical and finance advice to scam the receiver into sending money.
Fake Products
Since the start of the coronavirus, there has been a high demand for products such as masks, hand sanitizers, plastic gloves, cleaning products, etc. Fraudsters are using this high demand to their advantage. There are now many online ads and messages claiming that private companies are selling these products. These products may not be safe or may not be sent to the receiver, as it is just a scam to make money.
These 3 scams are happening a lot more often, and many people who are concerned about the virus and their own well-being may be tricked into buying fake vaccines or products, or unknowingly giving out private information. It is important that we all stay safe, not only from the virus, but from the criminals and their frauds. Please check out https://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/features-vedette/2020/covid-19-eng.htm to learn more and spread awareness on possible scams.
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