Helping you avoid COVID‑19 online scams
Recently, there’s been a significant rise in online scams related to COVID‑19. We're providing these tips to help you spot and avoid these scams, so you can stay safer online.
Common types of scams
Falsely representing health organizations
Scammers posing as health authorities, such as the WHO or CDC, may offer cures, tests or other COVID‑19 information.
Websites selling fraudulent products
Sites might offer hand sanitizer, face masks or other in-demand products that never arrive.
Posing as government sources
Some scams claim to issue updates and payments on behalf of the IRS or local government tax authority.
Fraudulent financial offers
Scammers may pose as banks, investors or debt collectors, with offers designed to steal financial information.
Fake nonprofit donation requests
Requests for COVID‑19 donations to nonprofits, hospitals or other organizations should be checked carefully.
How to avoid common scams
Know how scammers may reach you
Be cautious of requests for personal or financial information
Donate directly through nonprofit organizations
Some scams take advantage of goodwill, requesting donations for COVID‑19 relief efforts. Do some research to make sure the nonprofit is legitimate
Scammers also pose as legitimate nonprofits. To be more confident your money will reach a nonprofit, you can donate directly through their website ─ rather than clicking a link sent to you.
Double check links and email addresses before clicking
Search to see if it’s been reported
Add an extra layer of security to your account
For extra protection online, add two-factor authentication — also known as 2-step verification — to your accounts. This provides another layer of security by requiring two steps to gain access to your account: for example, something you know (your password) and something you physically have on hand (like your phone or a security key).

Report it
If you see something suspicious, report it to Report An Incident