Hawaii Attorney General Clare E. Connors and Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection Executive Director Stephen Levins are urging the Hawaii public to beware of, and report, scams related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
“The public has to be extra cautious of those who would take advantage of our community in a crisis situation,” said Connors. “We advise everyone to be vigilant, especially as we all work to ensure that everyone has access to necessities.”
Hawaii consumers should be vigilant as scammers attempt to take advantage of the public’s fear of the situation by setting up charity scam websites, offering bogus medical treatment claiming to cure or prevent COVID-19 and disseminating misinformation about the disease through social media, text messages and emails.
The public is advised to watch for fraudulent emails claiming to be from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or experts saying they have information about the virus.
Verify information through trusted government websites such as www.ftc.gov, www.cdc.gov, health.hawaii.gov, www.who.int, etc.
Officials also advise members of the public not to click on links from sources they do not know because doing so could lead to computer viruses or phishing attempts.
There currently are no vaccines, pills, potions, lotions, lozenges or other prescription or over-the-counter products available to treat or cure COVID-19. Scammers might offer fake vaccines and other bogus medical products claiming to offer “cures.” They could also offer “get rich quick” investment schemes for unproven treatments.
Also, beware of fundraising solicitations, and do not rush into making donations whether through charities or crowdfunding sites. People should never feel rushed or pressured to donate.
Finally, never make donations in cash, by gift card or by money wire.