Be aware that criminals are attempting to exploit COVID-19 through a variety of scams

Criminals will likely continue to use new methods to exploit Covid-19. Stay alert and stay informed about common fraud schemes related to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Find out more about types of scams.

Scammers typically prey on people's fears of pandemic in order to collect personal information, financial information etc. They contact people and claim to be the Health Authority or its affiliates, using numbers or email addresses that appear to be very similar to the official hotline/email for medical declaration support. Scams may come through phone calls from real people, robocalls, or text messages.

To help protect yourself from scams, including coronavirus scams, be aware of identity theft and follow the tips below:

• Do not share your personal or health information to anyone but those appointed medical organizations by the local authorities.

• Do not respond to calls or texts from unknown numbers, or any others that appear suspicious.

• Never share your personal or financial information via email, text messages, or over the phone. Remember that the health authorities will never call you to ask for financial information.

• Be cautious if you're being pressured to share any identifiable information or make a payment for coronavirus testing or medical declarations immediately.

The official hotline for medical declaration support (Callbot) on the National Steering Committee for COVID-19 Prevention and Control is 18001119. The Callbot will collect public health data and highlight those with Covid-19 symptoms for prompt virus contain actions. Be cautious to double check on the given dial number to follow the instructions and provide the healthcare professionals a real time and sufficient health data.