
Here we are, in the midst of the worst pandemic in one hundred years, just trying to make sense of 2020. Finally, vaccines are beginning to appear to provide us a light at the end of the tunnel. For most of us, this fact is a reason to begin to celebrate.
Unfortunately, for those morally deprived characters we call “scammers,” this is merely another occasion to steal people’s money. These thieves are taking to the phone and to email promising people that they can “jump ahead” in the line to receive the Covid-19 vaccine if they will just pay a sum of money. Also, some of these miscreants are selling fake and untested vaccines and test kits.
Both the FTC and the FDA have issued warnings about these types of scams. The links to read these warnings are at the end of this post but let me highlight from each of them.
From the FTC warning:
- You likely will not need to pay anything out of pocket to get the vaccine during this public health emergency.
- You can’t pay to put your name on a list to get the vaccine.
- You can’t pay to get early access to the vaccine.
- No one from a vaccine distribution site or health care payer, like a private insurance company, will call you asking for your Social Security number or your credit card or bank account information to sign you up to get the vaccine.
- Beware of providers offering other products, treatments, or medicines to prevent the virus. Check with your health care provider before paying for or receiving any COVID-19-related treatment.
From the FDA warning:
- Be suspicious of products that claim to treat a wide range of diseases.
- Personal testimonials are no substitute for scientific evidence.
- Few diseases or conditions can be treated quickly, so be suspicious of any therapy claimed as a “quick fix.”
- If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
- “Miracle cures,” which claim scientific breakthroughs or contain secret ingredients, are likely a hoax.
Don’t fall for any of these scams. When it’s your time to take the Covid-19 vaccine, you’ll be notified properly. Remember the warnings above and keep your money! Let the scammers waste their time.
To read the full warnings: