A Rise in Fraud and Identity Theft During the Coronavirus Pandemic

​One of the worst side effects of the coronavirus pandemic has been a drastic rise in uncertainty. As our collective attentions are turned toward public health, the economy and our personal well-being, there has been an unfortunate rise in identity theft and fraud as scammers attempt to exploit the situation. Particularly within the senior population.
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COVID-19 has provided fuel for cyber criminals to prey upon the public’s concern about this global crisis. Recent scams are designed to trick people into sending money, to disclose personal information or to click on emails and websites that deliver computer malware onto the recipients’ computer or network. 

The Most Common Scams to Watch Out For

• Impersonating a representative of a bank or other financial institution providing or requesting information about your account (often appear as an email with an address).
• Seeking donations for purported charitable causes related to the virus.
• Impersonating a legitimate medical or health organization while selling products that claim to prevent, mitigate, treat, diagnose or cure COVID-19.
• Posing as an in-demand medical supply company offering to sell hard-to-find medical supplies to protect against the virus.
• Taking advantage of the recent increase in work-at-home arrangements by impersonating legitimate business correspondence.
• Posing as a government organization claiming to provide information about COVID-19, such as heat maps or infographics.

In addition to new fraud opportunities, the COVID-19 pandemic has also opened up new avenues of attack for would-be identity thieves, which is why it’s more important than ever to safeguard your personal information.

Tips to avoid coronavirus scams:

• Avoid online offers for coronavirus-related vaccines or cures; they aren't legitimate.
• Be wary of emails, calls and social media posts advertising "free" or government-ordered COVID-19 tests. Check the FDA website for a list of approved tests and testing companies. 
• Don't click on links or download files from unexpected emails, even if the email address looks like a company or person you recognize. Ditto for text messages and unfamiliar websites.
• Don't share personal information such as Social Security, Medicare and credit card numbers in response to an unsolicited call, text or email.
• Be skeptical of fundraising calls or emails for COVID-19 victims or virus research, especially if they pressure you to act fast and request payment by prepaid debit cards or gift cards.
• Ignore phone calls or emails from strangers

You can learn more by reading this great article by AARP HERE.
Or how to find information about How To Find the Best Identity Theft Protection Services HERE.

If you know anyone who may need these services or have a loved one who is ill and may need advice, we want you to know we are here to help! Bob is working with clients every day as they navigate these challenging times, and he highly recommends you reach out.
Having a strong estate plan in place will help you know that your retirement will be protected, regardless of what life brings!

Schedule a FREE consultation with Bob today!

Bob Michaels is extremely passionate about providing the best possible legal experience for his clients, and focuses his practice on elder law, estate planning, business, and real estate matters. Bob has been able to provide piece of mind and a solid foundation to many folks in the Puget Sound area over the years and wants to provide resources and relevant information whenever he can.