Scammers may take advantage of fears related to COVID-19 outbreak by selling bogus “treatment” and “prevention” products, establishing fake charities, and sending seemingly legitimate emails with malicious links or attachments.
Be Careful When Making Charitable Donations
· Before making donations to support those who are ill or suffering financially because of the COVID-19 outbreak, do your homework:
· If the appeal claims to be from a charity, make sure that it is registered with the Attorney General’s Charitable Trusts Unit. The list may be found here: https://www.doj.nh.gov/
· If the appeal is for an individual, think hard about donating unless you know the person needing help and that person’s circumstances;
· Do not let anyone rush you into making a donation;
· Check that you are dealing with a legitimate charity or individual and not an “imposter” with a deceptively similar name;
· Do not assume that social media recommendations for donations are legitimate.
Beware of False Claims and Deceptive Marketing
· Do not be tempted by claims and advice on social media and online websites that certain products or treatments can cure or prevent COVID-19.
· There currently are no prescription or over-the-counter pills, vaccines, oils, lotions, or other products available to treat or cure COVID-19. Always check with your health care provider before buying such products.
Be on the Lookout for Phony CDC Emails
Be careful about opening emails claiming to be from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or from others claiming to have information about COVID-19. Clicking on links or attachments could cause a computer virus to infect your device.
Stay Informed
To report a charitable giving scam, contact the Charitable Trusts Unit:
· Phone: 603-271-3591
To report a business-related scam, contact the Consumer Protection Hotline:
· Phone: 1-888-468-4454
