Scams

CORONAVIRUS TESTING SCAM

COVID-19 testing should only be ordered by your treating physician.  Never accept a test from someone:

  • Who comes to your door;
  • Who approaches you at the grocery store or other community venue, parking lot, etc.
  • Who calls you on the telephone offering a mail-in test in exchange for money or Medicare number;
  • Who calls you to request your bank card or account information to pay for a test.

 If someone comes knowing at your door with offers of medical testing, call your local police department.  Do not let them in.

Remember: Never give out your Medicare number to someone you don’t know!

CYBER SECURITY ALERT - COVID-19

As the country responds to the COVID-19 virus, please be aware that cybercriminals are using this emergency as a "phishing lure" to infiltrate computer systems. Experts expect to see an increase in exploits related to COVID-19 as publicity around the virus increases. Cybercriminals are using trusted brands, like World Health Organization (WHO) & U.S. Center for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), to build credibility & entice users into opening attachments. The risk from this effort is heightened as work from home efforts are on the rise.

What can you do?

  • Don't click on any COVID-19 related links or attachments you receive via email or messaging apps.
  • Don't be fooled by legitimate-looking branding on messages you receive. There are good fakes making the rounds. Cybercriminals will also often use language that conveys a sense of urgency.
  • If you want COVID-19 news, navigate directly to the WHO & CDC websites. Use best practices by typing URLs into your web browser and use Google Search to search for legitimate sites. The following link on the MMA website offers some advice from Stephanie Helm, Director of the MassCyber Center on cybersecurity for cities and towns who are temporarily transitioning to working remotely.
  • Don't put your credentials into third-party sites unless you're 100% sure you're on the correct site.