Ways to Avoid COVID-19 Vaccine Scams
Although reports about the release of COVID-19 vaccines in the U.S. by the end of the year are promising, distribution plans are still being worked out. While we wait for a timeline and more information beware of fraudulent claims regarding the sale and distribution of the vaccine.
❖ For most people living in the U.S., state agencies—not individuals—will be responsible for implementing vaccine distribution plans. You cannot pay to put your name on a list to get the vaccine.
❖ If you get a call, text, email (or even someone knocking on your door) claiming that they can provide you early access to the vaccine, it’s a scam. Do not pay for any promises of early access to the vaccine.
❖ IGNORE ANY VACCINE OFFERS THAT ASK FOR YOUR PERSONAL OR FINANCIAL INFORMATION. LEGITIMATE VACCINE RESOURCES WILL NOT ASK FOR YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER, BANK ACCOUNT, OR DEBIT/CREDIT CARD NUMBER. Be wary of calls, texts, emails, or weblinks using promises of the vaccine to phish for your personal information.
For more information about COVID-related scams and tips on how to recognize, avoid and report them, visit the FTC’s website.
If you have any questions please call our Customer First Contact Center at (203) 462-4400 (Mon – Fri 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
