Sheriffs warn of COVID-19 scams

The sheriffs of Broward and Palm Beach counties are advising people to beware of scams that prey on the fears of the coronavirus.

Some social media posts are claiming personnel from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are visiting homes dressed in protective gear and conducting COVID-19 tests.

This is false. The CDC is not going door to door, officials said.

Scammers are taking advantage of the coronavirus crisis and are trying to dupe consumers. Some of the scams include:

■ Social media posts, texts, and websites designed to get your personal information and money and infect computers.

■ Think twice before investing in companies that say they are working on a coronavirus cure. Check official sources like the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to see if the company exists before being lured into a scam.

■ Be aware of fake fundraising. Verify the charity is legitimate. If someone wants donations in cash, gift card or by wiring money, don’t do it.

■ Watch out for online marketing of vaccinations or products claiming to treat the virus.

■ Do not click on unfamiliar links or emails. Phishing emails may mention the coronavirus, medical supplies or claim to be from government, national or local health organizations in order to get users to open the message that unleashes malware.

■ Watch for emails claiming to be from the CDC or experts saying they have information about the virus.

■ Be aware of entering personal information into websites. (Source: Broward Sheriff’s Office)

If you see or experience something unusual or have a question about something you heard, you can call the Broward Sheriff ’s Office non-emergency line at 954-764-4357 or the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office at 561-688-3400.