VENTURA, California – District Attorney Gregory D. Totten announced today a warning to the public to be aware of current COVID-19 scams being reported to law enforcement agencies.
Other counties are reporting that scammers are posing as contact tracers to obtain personal information and steal money from unknowing victims. While it is important to respond to phone calls, emails or text messages about a potential exposure to COVID-19, be aware that legitimate contact tracers working with Ventura County or with the State of California will never charge a fee for their services nor ask for personal identifying information such as a social security number, bank account, or health insurance policy number.
Fraud schemes related to antibody testing for COVID-19 have also been emerging. Scammers are marketing and selling tests not yet approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), potentially providing false results. In addition, scammers are attempting to obtain county residents’ personal identifying information to commit fraud. Be wary of advertisements for antibody testing from unknown or unverified sources and marketing tactics using social media, emails and phone calls offering incentives to undergo antibody testing. Updated information on approved antibody tests and testing companies is available on the FDA’s website at: https://www.fda.gov. It is also recommended that you consult with your primary care physician before undergoing any at-home antibody tests to verify its efficacy and safety.
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