01/14/2022 | News release | Distributed by Public on 01/15/2022 00:45
If you've been looking for a COVID-19 test, you probably know that they are in short supply. Unfortunately, scammers love to "help" with shortages. They've created fake and unauthorized at-home testing kits, and they're still at itwith fake COVID-19 testing sites.
These fake sites can be hard to spot. They look real, with legitimate-looking signs, tents, hazmat suits, and realistic-looking tests. And the damage these fake testing sites can cause is very real.
We've heard reports of these sites claiming to have 'free tests' -but then you're later billed -and sometimes never receive the test that was promised. Fake sites are taking people's personal information, including Social Security numbers, credit card information, and other health information -which can be used for identity theft or to run up your credit card bill.
Worst of all, they're not giving people the help they need to stay healthy.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when looking into testing sites.
Think you already went to a fake site? If you shared your credit card information, plan to dispute the charge.
Spotted a fake COVID-19 testing site? Tell your local police or sheriff's office. And then tell us at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
This is very helpful! More consumers need to read this. The fraud is rampant and seems to continue
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