Protecting Yourself Against Scams and Fraud During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Finances

Mar 23

The novel coronavirus or COVID-19 has been the top of people’s minds across America and the world. There is no doubt that the virus has impacted the lives of millions and new information pops up daily, if not hourly. Many are already feeling the impact of the virus on their personal pocketbooks and are concerned about the overall economic impact of this pandemic. As we think and worry about the impact that COVID-19 might have on our wallets, scammers seek to prey upon fears and anxieties surrounding the virus and are gearing up to take advantage. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has already seen an uptick in these scams which include things like websites selling fake products that claim to cure or treat the virus, fake emails, text messages, and social media posts promoting awareness or offering advice on unproven treatments, and even fake charities asking you to donate to victims. Additionally, as our country works to fight this virus, there have been reports that our government will soon be sending money by check or deposit to each of us. The exact details of what amount may be sent and when are still being worked out. While the details are still being worked out, there are a few important things to know, no matter what:

The government will not ask you to pay anything up front to get this money. No fees. No charges. No nothing.
The government will not call to ask for your Social Security number, bank account, or credit card number. Anyone who does is a scammer.
These reports of checks aren’t yet a reality. Anyone who tells you they can get you the money now is a scammer.

The FTC expects even more scams to pop as the situation with COVID-19 develops. It is recommended to stay extra vigilant about scams and fraud at this time to avoid falling prey to scams and fraud. Click for more information about COVID-19 related scams and fraud.

Amelia Crotwell, JD

Amelia Crotwell, founder and managing partner at Elder Law of East Tennessee, has guided families through long-term care and special needs challenges for nearly two decades. Specializing in Life Care Planning and special needs trusts, Amelia also collaborates across all areas of elder law, including wills, trusts, Medicare, Medicaid, probate, and veterans benefits planning. Certified as an Elder Law Attorney since 2011, she is president-elect of the Life Care Planning Law Firms Association and co-chair of their strategic planning committee. Amelia is deeply involved in the Special Needs Alliance and a prominent member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys. She played a key role in founding the Tennessee chapter of NAELA, serving as its first president. A member of the Tennessee Bar Association and past chair of its Elder Law Section Executive Council, Amelia also dedicates time to pro bono work and community education. She earned her J.D., summa cum laude, from the University of Tennessee College of Law and teaches Elder Law there as an adjunct professor since 2018.