By Tory Vance
We are witnessing one of the most significant global pandemics in the last few decades. From March 2020 until today, the whole world has experienced huge losses and challenges caused by the Coronavirus pandemic.
Given that the Internet is flooded with various information and sites that offer various health services, it is no wonder why every day, more and more scams appear on the Internet in the form of flashy websites and suspicious hyperlinks.
To avoid any technology scam related to the current global pandemic of COVID-19, or any other health-related situation, we’ve provided you with a list of the most common medical scams you should be aware of this year.
Stimulus Checks and Coronavirus Scams
In 2021, there has been an invasion of stimulus checks in people’s accounts at all different times. Besides that, there has been so much confusion related to Coronavirus relief programs. Because of all of that, scammers have found a real opportunity to get money from people in numerous different ways.
According to that, a CPA, Howard Dvorkin, states that the most common scams of 2021, so far, have involved stimulus checks. He said that whether via email, phone call, or text message, these scammers are told a lie to confirm their personal information before they get to receive their check. Once they get over their Social Security number and other personal data, they’re toast.
Howard also added that a variation of this particular scam was offering so-called “COVID relief grants” in addition to stimulus checks. To apply for these specific substantial grants, one has to and over every bit of personal information, those scammers could sell, or even worse, people who can run up their credit card and raid their bank account.
Fake Negative Coronavirus Certificates
Numerous countries in the world are demanding their visitors to have a negative test to COVID-19. Suppose you are a traveler, or you need to go somewhere during the global pandemic. In that case, it’s most likely that you’ll need to show the customs officers at the border or airport your negative Coronavirus certificate.
Therefore, on the black market, you can find these forget certificates. They are widely being sold for as low as $40 and more. Nonetheless, some scammers are selling fake COVID-19 certificates for a lot more money.
COVID-19 Vaccine Appointment and Vaccination Card Scam
If you post vaccination selfies on your social media accounts, you can be a victim of identity theft. Here’s how it’s done. Most criminals are taking advantage of personal information on these documents to create false vaccination cards and then sell them for a reasonable price on the black market.
On the other hand, there’s another scam related to the current Coronavirus pandemic. Don’t forget that texts and emails are being sent to people’s phones and email addresses to encourage them to give their bank details for booking an appointment for the vaccine, which is accessible on the NHS application.
Conclusion
Because the Internet is full of scams, especially when it comes to fragile health and sick people, it is always important to thoroughly check the source and credibility of each site, email, message, or individual who requests personal information or money.
Don’t be gullible. Do your homework and be sure to deal exclusively with legal and secure companies or individuals.
