{"id":14028,"date":"2020-05-26T01:32:16","date_gmt":"2020-05-26T07:32:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lexingtonlaw.com\/blog\/?p=14028"},"modified":"2022-09-27T10:32:08","modified_gmt":"2022-09-27T16:32:08","slug":"scams-to-avoid-during-coronavirus","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lexingtonlaw.com\/blog\/life-events\/scams-to-avoid-during-coronavirus.html","title":{"rendered":"6 Scams to Avoid During Coronavirus"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Scams to avoid during the coronavirus pandemic include phishing email and ransomware scams, fake coronavirus-related websites, coronavirus stimulus check tax refund fraud, fake coronavirus remedies and online tests, fake coronavirus mobile apps and online promotions, and online sales of fake personal protective equipment.<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

As of April 2020, the United States government will start distributing $1200 checks for Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Securities (CARES) Act<\/a> funds. Recipients qualify based on their most recent tax returns or social security information. While some people may not receive their checks until September, the goal is to help Americans during this financially challenging time.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Unfortunately, coronavirus scams are on the rise. Cybercriminals are working overtime to gain access to your persona, social security and financial information. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The COVID-19 outbreak has Americans scared right now \u2014 financial concerns, equipment shortages and job losses are some of the most common reasons why. This stress leaves people susceptible to scams and fraud. Online sales of counterfeit products and services, as well as phishing email scams, can target and take advantage of unsuspecting victims. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Government agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and Federal Trade Commission (FTC) are on the front lines cracking down on COVID-19 scams. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are six scams to be aware of during the coronavirus pandemic and tips on how to avoid them.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Phishing Email and Ransomware Scams<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Email phishing and malware scams are on the rise and could infect the computers of thousands of Americans and businesses. In 2019, the FBI\u2019s online Crime Complaint Center (IC3)<\/a> reported 467,361 cybercrime complaints.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phishing scams involve sending fake emails or creating apps that trick people into downloading computer viruses that can steal identity<\/a>, account passwords, banking and credit card information, or social security information<\/a>.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Unfortunately, it doesn\u2019t stop there. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Fake anti-virus notifications \u2014 also known as \u201cransomware\u201d \u2014 run rampant on the internet. With the majority of companies working from home, cyber attackers are creating fake VPNs (virtual private networks). A VPN allows users to extend private networks instead of using public networks. This enables the protected sharing of confidential files, documents and resources. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When used by cyber attackers, they\u2019re essentially able to go unnoticed. The fake VPNs allow cyber attackers to send ransomware into the network. If downloaded, access to the company data, computers and cell phones become locked. The hackers then request payment from victims to regain access. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to Prevent<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To prevent cyber attackers from entering your VPN network, consider using multi-factor authentication for your online accounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When a password is entered, the multi-factor authentication will send a notification and an access code to your cell phone or email for verification. It will alert you if alternate devices are attempting to gain access. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This makes it harder for hackers to steal your passwords and gain access to your important documents, photos, contacts and financial information. If you receive a potential phishing email, check the name on the email. Is it to you, or addressed with a generic phrase like “Sir” or “Madam?” <\/p>\n\n\n\n

With a steady rise in employees and businesses operating remotely, these threats should be taken seriously. It\u2019s important to be aware of your financial security<\/a> and use the FTC<\/a>\u2019s list of tips to recognize some of these scams. <\/p>\n\n\n\n