On 12/8/2020, the Federal Trade Commission issued a “consumer education blog post” which provides tips for consumers on how to recognize and avoid vaccine-related scams. In their blog post, the FTC warns that, with COVID-19 vaccines in the pipeline, scammers will not be far behind. Therefore, consumers should look out for red flags of potential scams.
The post notes that:
reports about the release of COVID-19 vaccines in the U.S. by the end of the year are promising, but distribution plans are still being worked out;
while we wait for a timeline and more information, people need to be wary of pitchmen claiming to have vaccine doses for sale; and
for most people living in the U.S., state agencies—not individuals—will be responsible for implementing vaccine distribution plans.
The post includes a graphic that highlights key consumer tips and provides a list of things consumer should know to avoid a vaccine-related scam, including the following:
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.
The full blog post can be found here.
