KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Kalamazoo Sheriff Richard Fuller is warning citizens of several scams stemming from the outbreak.
“We would hope that it would slow down during a time like this,” Fuller said. “Scam artists know that you’re gonna be online, so they’re trying a lot of different things, especially related to COVID-19.”
To begin with, Fuller is warning of fake emails regarding the COVID-19 stimulus package checks.
“Don’t respond to texts or emails about checks from the government,” Fuller said. “Those emails are not gonna come. The checks will come later on, but not the emails.”
Additionally, Fuller is warning not to fall for scams regarding coronavirus vaccinations and at-home testing kits.
“Those things are not real,” Fuller said.
Scams regarding cures or prevention methods have even caught the attention of Attorney General Dana Nessel, who recently cracked down on a West Michigan business selling phony “coronavirus patches.”
Meanwhile, Sheriff Fuller says problems with illegal robocalls are still continuing to circulate.
“Hang up on robocalls,” Fuller said. “Scammers are using illegal robocalls to pitch everything from low-priced health insurance to work-at-home schemes.”
Beyond phony phone calls, fraudulent emails are being reported from scammers masquerading as official government bodies.
“Watch for emails claiming to be from the CDC or the World Health Organization,” Fuller said. “They are not sending emails to people.”
Finally, Fuller is warning of donation scams.
“Do not donate anything to somebody that you don’t know already, you don’t have a donating relationship with, and never send cash or gift cards by wiring money.” Fuller said.
The Better Business Bureau of West Michigan has recently released a comprehensive list of known COVID-19 scams which can be viewed at this link. All potential scams can be reported to the Better Business Bureau or the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection team.
Scams can be reported to the Consumer Protection Team by filing a complaint online or by calling 877-765-8388.
