PROTECT YOURSELF FROM
CORONAVIRUS SCAMS
Report scams to the North Carolina Department of Justice
at ncdoj.gov/complaint or 1-877-5-NO-SCAM.
DON'T BUY MIRACLE CURES
According to health officials, no product exists that will prevent you from getting
the coronavirus or cure you if you already have the virus. The best way
to protect yourself is by taking common-sense health precautions. Beware of
people selling cure-all vaccines, drugs, or any other products. Consult with a
doctor or health professional before you buy. Remember - if it seems too good
to be true, it probably is.
DON'T FALL FOR ROBOCALLS
We're seeing reports of robocallers ramping up their efforts to steal your money
with coronavirus-related scam calls. Don't fall for calls pretending to be from
your health insurance company, health experts, the government, or people
offering cure-all products or solutions for the virus. Report robocalls to
ncdoj.gov/norobo or 1-844-8-NO-ROBO.
BEWARE OF PHISHING ATTEMPTS
Be careful about where you get your information. Stick to trusted resources for
updates, including NCDHHS and the CDC. Watch out for phishing emails and
texts about the coronavirus that appear to be from health or government
officials, and don't open or download anything or share information with others
unless you've verified who you're communicating with.
AVOID CHARITY SCAMS
Make sure that any donations you give are going to real charities addressing
the coronavirus, not scammers. Verify charities through the North Carolina
Secretary of State, BBB Wise Giving Alliance, Charity Watch, or Charity
Navigator. Ask how your donation will be used, and pay by credit card for
security and tax record purposes.
BE A SMART SHOPPER
Take a moment before you buy in-demand items like hand sanitizers, face
masks, cleaning products, or groceries. Don't overstock on supplies you may
not need. Before you make a purchase, check with your doctor to confirm
whether you actually need it. Check company/product reviews before you buy,
and avoid high-pressure or time-limited offers. North Carolina's price gouging
law is in effect, which makes it illegal to charge too much during a crisis.
Report potential price gouging at ncdoj.gov/gouging or 1-877-5-NO-SCAM.
8 Living Power
/complaint
/norobo
/gouging