PHOENIX – Scammers are trying to capitalize on Arizonan’s concern regarding the coronavirus and law enforcement officials are warning them to beware.
According to the Arizona attorney general’s office, there are reports of price gouging for certain products like N95 respirator masks. Arizona does not have laws prohibiting price gouging or charging high prices in times of emergency or heightened public health concerns. Consumers who believe they’ve been a victim of consumer fraud can file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office.
Attorney General Mark Brnovich discussed the scams on KFYI’s James T. Harris show:
Brnovich offered consumer tips for the public:
● Beware of phishing emails claiming to be from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the World Health Organization (WHO). Fraudsters are posing as the CDC and WHO and sending legitimate-looking emails to consumers. Do not click on any unsolicited links.
● A recently released report by Check Point Research found that over 4,000 coronavirus-related domains have been registered across the globe since January of this year. It is common for illegitimate and exploitative domains to pop-up around high-profile public events such as natural disasters or tragedies.
● Look out for coronavirus-related investment scams. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) issued an alert about investor fraud involving claims that a company’s products or services could prevent, detect, or cure coronavirus. More information.
● Watch out for “miracle” products or vaccines that claim to cure the coronavirus. Oftentimes the websites will include “supposed” personal testimonials instead of scientific evidence.
● Do your homework before you donate. It is common for scammers to set up GoFundMe fundraisers after highly publicized events and then disappear with the money.