Avoid Coronavirus Scams - FTC

Get information to avoid coronavirus (COVID-19) scams.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) provides a number of tops to help you keep scammers at bay.

Example Tips

Hang up on robocalls.

Ignore online offers for vaccinations and home test kits

  • Don’t respond to texts and emails about checks from government
  • COVID-19 vaccines are free. If anyone charges you for help signing up or the shot itself, it’s a scam.
  • You can’t buy the COVID-19 vaccine anywhere. It’s only available at federal- and state-approved locations.
  • Always talk with your doctor or healthcare professional before you try any product claiming to treat, prevent, or cure COVID-19.
  • Don’t post your vaccination card to your social media account. Someone could use the information for identity theft.
  • Right now, there are no official plans to create a national vaccine verification app or certificate or passport.
  • If someone asks you for personal information or money to get a national vaccine certificate or passport, that’s a scam.
  • Contact your state government(link is external) about its vaccine verification plans and requirements.