Among the many challenges to emerge amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic are opportunistic con-artists hoping to take advantage of the public’s fear related to the virus to turn a quick buck, Pasadena police warned Wednesday.
The Pasadena Police Department took to social media to offer some tips to avoid becoming a victim.
“As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact our country, we have learned of scam text-message campaigns and robocalls that prey on virus-related fears,” police said in a written statement. “Some of these scams include falsely advertising a cure for the virus, scammers that have focused on health and financial concerns connected to COVID-19, and some contact tracing scams.”
City, county and federal officials issued a warning last week, on the heels of news that the first coronavirus vaccine had been approved, regarding scammers trying to con people by falsely promising to offer early access to vaccination.
Pasadena police suggested several steps to help the public stay safe from scammers:
- Don’t respond to calls or texts from unknown numbers or any others that seem suspicious.
- Never share personal or financial information via email, text messages or over the phone.
- Be wary if being pressured to share any information or make a payment immediately.
- Since scammers are able to “spoof” phone numbers, making it appear on caller ID as if the calls are originating from a legitimate source, it’s important to keep in mind that government agencies will never call you to ask for personal information or money.
- Don’t click any links in a text message. If a suspicious link that seems out of character is received from a friend, call to verify.
- Always research charities before making a donation.
Anyone who believes they’ve been targeted in a scam is encouraged to contact law enforcement immediately.