In my last two posts, I discussed ways of knowing what to believe online. (If you haven’t read those posts, you should do that before finishing this one!) When it comes to the Coronavirus, there’s lots of false information online. This post is a warning so you don’t fall victim to a scam and so you don’t panic.
Besides Keystone Computer Concepts, other companies are working to help you get the correct information. As an example, Facebook (with over 2 billion users world-wide) is taking steps to block misinformation and false ads about the virus. Mark Zukerberg, in an informational post, said in part: “…we’re removing false claims and conspiracy theories that have been flagged by leading global health organizations. We’re also blocking people from running ads that try to exploit the situation — for example, claiming that their product can cure the disease.” He went on to state: “We’re also focused on stopping hoaxes and harmful misinformation.” Additionally, Facebook is temporarily banning ads and commerce listings selling medical face masks. The social media giant said on Friday that it will begin to enforce the temporary ban on these types of ads “over the next few days.”
Amazon also has reacted. According to the news agency, Reuters, “the online retail giant removed more than 1 million listings for items claiming to cure or defend against the Coronavirus. The company also said it removed thousands of items from merchants for price gouging.”
Besides Facebook and Amazon, you’ll find other sites that claim you should use this cleaner or that cleaner to “cure” or “ward-off” the Coronavirus. In response to such information, the EPA has posted a list of those cleaners and wipes which are effective against the virus. You can find that list HERE. Be sure to read the instruction page carefully so you know how to find and understand the EPA Registration Number on the different products. Unfortunately, finding stores that have any of these products available is a bit of a challenge right now. Hopefully, restocking will take place at an accelerated pace.
Another site working to dispel false information is, of course, the CDC. You can find their full coverage of the Coronavirus HERE.
My final advice: stay calm, stay smart and don’t fall for fake claims about the virus; follow the suggestions of the CDC regarding the washing of hands and the precautions those with underlying issues should take.
