One of the secondary threats over the last year has undoubtedly been the spread of misinformation regarding COVID-19. The onset of the pandemic saw us receiving conflicting information from a range of sources of varying legitimacy, causing confusion among citizens . And with the vaccination beginning to be distributed in Minnesota, verifying our sources of information is just as crucial now as it was a year ago.
Both the FBI and The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General have issued warnings to the public alerting of the existence of COVID vaccine-related scams. There are very real online threats hoping to prey on the anxiety and vulnerability COVID has left us all feeling.
It’s been reported that fraudsters are using telemarketing calls, emails, text messages, social media platforms, and even door-to-door visits in order to collect personal information and finances from individuals while promising to provide a vaccination. One common scam reported is receiving emails, texts and other online messaging that claim they can deliver doses of the vaccinations within days for as little as $150.
It is important to know the facts regarding how legitimate healthcare providers distribute the vaccination. Knowing these facts may help you identify how fraudulent sources would otherwise try to solicit information. Some of the most current and relevant information about the vaccine from both the FBI and the MN Department of Health are:
- You will never be asked to be pay out of pocket for the vaccine. It will be provided for free.
- Public health officials will never ask for your bank account, credit card, or social security number.
- The vaccine will not be shipped or delivered to your doorstep.
Any source contradicting these points should immediately arouse suspicion.
According to the FBI, other red flags to look out for are:
- You are asked to pay out of pocket to get the vaccine.
- You are asked to pay to put your name on vaccine waiting list or to get early access.
- Advertisements for vaccines through social media platforms, email, telephone calls, online, or from unsolicited/unknown sources.
- Marketers offering to sell or ship doses of the vaccine for payment.
Knowledge and mindfulness are our best defense against these predatory scams. Keep your guard up when receiving phone calls, texts, and emails from unknown sources and never give out your personal information in response to unsolicited messages.
The Minnesota Department of Health is great resource for local information on COVID-19 and its vaccine. There are situation updates, frequently asked questions, and details on official vaccine providers and projections: health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus
Official government sites such as the cdc.gov/coronavirus can provide information on official providers, as well as what to expect when receiving the vaccine. To see more tips on avoiding COVID scams or report fraud, visit ftc.gov/coronavirus.
When can you receive a vaccine?
You can visit vaccineconnector.mn.gov to check the status of vaccine distribution and sign up to receive updates on when you may be able to be vaccinated.
Waiting for official information regarding the distribution of the vaccine can be confusing and sometimes frustrating. However, the initial rollout we’ve seen, along with the recent declining trend in new COVID cases in Minnesota is still cause for optimism and celebration. Stay vigilant, but remain hopeful.
CEO Deb Taylor
