Coronavirus Scams – A Deadly Internet Threat
Overview
The Covid-19 pandemic, which began in Wuhan, China in 2019, has infected millions worldwide. Alongside the health crisis, a surge of Coronavirus-related scams has emerged, targeting vulnerable individuals—particularly the elderly—through cold calls, phishing emails, fake social media posts, and fraudulent schemes.
One of the most notorious examples has been the vaccination scam, where criminals pretended to offer early or cheap access to vaccines, tricking victims into paying and receiving nothing in return.
Common Types of Coronavirus Scams
Vaccine & Home Remedy Scams: Fraudsters offer fake cures, home remedies, or early access to vaccines in exchange for payment. These scams often spread via phone calls, texts, or online ads.
Identity Theft: Posting vaccination cards online can expose personal information, which scammers sell on the dark web.
Charity Scams: Fake charities claim to collect donations for Covid relief but keep the money for themselves.
Fake Government Calls: Scammers impersonate officials, asking for personal data or payments for supposed Covid-related services.
Banking Scams: Criminals pose as bank representatives, claiming account issues and requesting sensitive financial details.
Grandparent Scams: Targeting older people, scammers pretend to be relatives in urgent need of money.
Covid Help Fund Scams: Fraudsters solicit donations for fake Covid relief funds or request data about deceased family members.
Tips to Avoid Coronavirus Scams
- Research any charity or relief fund before donating.
- Ignore calls from unknown numbers requesting personal information.
- Remember: Banks will never ask for your personal details by phone.
- Verify the identity of anyone requesting money, even if they claim to be family.
- Understand that home remedies cannot cure Covid—consult a medical professional if you have symptoms.
In these difficult times, staying cautious is as important as staying healthy. Be aware of scams, protect your personal information, and report suspicious activities to the authorities.