ReclaimMyID

As the new Coronavirus vaccines begin to roll out, many Americans are chomping at the bit to get in line. Fear of contracting the virus can cloud judgement, and scammers are taking advantage of this vulnerability. As you wait for your opportunity to get vaccinated, please be aware of COVID-19 vaccine scams that are making the rounds. We will tell you what to look for so that you don’t become a victim.

How To Spot COVID-19 Vaccine Scams

While we wait our turn to receive the Coronavirus vaccine, we have to keep our eyes open to possible scams. Here are a few guidelines to follow in order to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft.

Anyone claiming to offer early access to the vaccine is a scam. If you receive a text, call, email or even a solicitor at your door who claims to have this power, disregard it. No one has the ability to offer early access.
You can’t pay to get your name on “the list”. Everyone has to follow the same rules, so if someone asks you to pay to get on a list, it’s a scam.
You shouldn’t have to pay for the vaccine. Insurance should cover the vaccine due to the pandemic being a public health emergency.
No one involved in the vaccination process, such as a private insurance company, will call and ask for personal information. If you receive a call or email asking you to provide your Social Security number or any other sensitive, personal information, this is an extreme red flag. Never provide personal information to unsolicited parties.

In order to receive the vaccine as quickly as possible, stay informed on the procedures and guidelines in your area. All of the information needed will be provided by your state and local government. Sources outside of the government who try to deviate from official plans are very likely COVID-19 vaccine scams. Please stay safe and report any scamming attempts to the Federal Trade Commission.