Department of Justice Warns of Coronavirus Scams Targeting Seniors

A U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) news release warns of cons that take advantage of the coronavirus to exploit older adults, reports the Virginia Gazette . DOJ said scammers have set up websites, called and e-mailed targets, and posted false information on social media websites. The scams include fake treatments for COVID-19; stealing money from people for household essentials or face masks through fake online stores; calling and demanding money for treating friends and family for the virus; calling/e-mailing to solicit donations as part of fraudulent relief schemes; sending phishing e-mails to download malware or obtain a person's financial data; persuading people to download smartphone apps that download malware to steal personal information; and offering investment advice and so-called research on the effects of COVID-19 on the economy and the stock market. Scammers will frequently try to create false urgency and push people into making irrational decisions. DOJ recommends that if something sounds too good to be true, it likely is. Consumers who do not know who they are talking to should hang up, and are advised not to click on links in e-mails. They also should conduct research on whatever service or product is being offered to ensure its legitimacy. DOJ also is adamant that no company or government agency will ever ask consumers to pay for a service with gift cards.