Hillsborough County officials are warning people to be aware of scammers trying to prey on people’s desire to get vaccinated for the coronavirus.
Scammers often gravitate toward products and services in high demand, and COVID-19 vaccines are no exception, a county news release says.
In recent weeks, scammers have been using the phone, the internet and social media to try to obtain money or financial or personal information, offering a coveted appointment for a vaccination as bait.
Sometimes the aim is access to a Social Security or credit card number; other scams download malware if the victim clicks on a link. Sometimes, the scam is so effective the victim shows up for a vaccination appointment that doesn’t exist, the release adds.
Hillsborough County’s Office of Emergency Management reminds people that vaccinations are free and those making vaccination appointments will never ask for payment, credit card information or a Social Security number.
A COVID-19 Consumer Alert issued by the Florida Attorney General’s Office offers information and tips for people who are approached by someone seeking to take advantage of them.
See something suspicious? Report possible scams to the Florida Attorney General’s Office at 1-866-9NO-SCAM or by visiting MyFloridaLegal.com.
You also can contact Hillsborough County Consumer & Veterans Services.
Published February 10, 2021
