How to Spot, Avoid and Report a Covid-19 Vaccine Scam
Scams are not new, but the risk of being the victim of a Covid-19 vaccine scam has increased as quickly as the virus itself. And unfortunately, seniors and their caregivers are too often the target.
Here are a few things to look out for if you find yourself answering questions about your personal information posed by someone you don’t know, no matter how genuine and well-meaning they look, sound or act.
Your personal info includes your full name, address, phone number, social security number, date of birth, credit card account information or bank account information. Consider all of these things as your property – valuable and something you would never give away to a stranger.
How to Spot a Covid-19 Vaccine Scam
Be alert to anyone who contacts you via phone, email, or text with an offer of getting a vaccine appointment with a cash deposit. Vaccines are free to most individuals 65 and over. And no one should be contacting you to “sell” a dose of the vaccine.
In NYC, it is incumbent on individuals or their caregivers to schedule an appointment for the vaccine by calling 1-877-829-4692. You can also register online: https://am-i-eligible.covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov.
How to Protect Yourself from Covid-19 Vaccine Scammers
If someone you don’t know calls, emails, or texts you, rather than engaging in a real or virtual conversation, hang up or do not respond. It’s easier to cut contact, so they don’t have time to persuade you of their legitimacy.
Never give out personal information to someone over the phone, via email, text or in person. If they insist, they need this to sell you something you didn’t initiate, stop, and say, “I never give out my personal information.” And then hang up or close the door.
Keep a script by the phone, computer, or front door. Just a brief statement that you can’t ignore if you find yourself about to provide personal info to someone that YOU did not contact.
Report – If you think you’ve been scammed, it’s important to report it. To report a Covid-19 related scam, call 833 VAX SCAM (829 7226).
These strategies are smart to practice in every situation to keep you and your personal info safe. If you believe you’ve been the target of other scams, you should report this to your local police department.
At UJCES we can help you to schedule a vaccine appointment. We’ll only ask you to respond the screening questions that are necessary to book an appointment. Call us or fill out our online intake, and we'll reach you back as soon as possible.
