“Scammers are trying to take advantage of your fears,” said Sheriff Chronister in the video message posted to social media. “If you or your business gets a call from someone claiming they are selling face masks or other personal protection equipment, proceed with caution.”
Sheriff Chronister warned that there are individuals with fake companies accepting purchase orders for N95 face masks that they do not possess. Once victims place an order, the supplies are likely to never arrive. Buying supplies from trusted businesses and documenting each transaction is encouraged.
Emails and inaccurate news articles have begun circulating nationwide claiming to be from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in order to spread false information about COVID-19 treatments or cures. Sheriff Chronister advised residents to be careful not to share false information.
“Stay alert for phishing emails asking you to verify your personal information in order to receive an economic stimulus check from the government,” said Sheriff Chronister. “When in doubt, always go to an official government website to see if what you’re reading is real.”
Anyone who is made aware of a coronavirus-related scam is encouraged to report it to the Federal Trade Commission at FTC.gov
To view Sheriff Chronister’s PSA on coronavirus scams, visit the HCSO Sheriff YouTube account: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mCtDCmNT-Y&feature=youtu.be
To view Sheriff Chronister’s PSA on coronavirus scams, visit the HCSO Sheriff YouTube account: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mCtDCmNT-Y&feature=youtu.be