Iowans are being warned to be cautious both online and off as scam activity is ramping up during the Covid-19 outbreak. CPR Call Blocker has made a prediction that scammers will be ready to strike as more states go into lockdown. The top five scams they are seeing include those for fake test kits. Callers are claiming to offer free coronavirus testing kits and then ask for personal details, including insurance information. Typically, these are targeted towards the high-risk populations. There is an FDIC scam, promising federal money in an attempt to get social security numbers and banking information. The FDIC will never make an unsolicited call and ask for such information. Charity scams are expected to increase as the scammers play on the caring nature of those who want to help others impacted by the coronavirus. Some have the caller posing as a healthcare provider, telling the victim a friend or family member has contracted the virus. They will demand immediate payment for treatment and threaten legal action in the event of non-compliance. The other most popular scam expected to surge is that for student loans, saying the victim needs to call a special number to hear about the impact. The scammers then attempt to get social security and credit card numbers. While not exhaustive, this list is an example of some of the efforts to bilk people out of money. To stop unwanted calls, register with the Do Not Call Registry, a link to which can be found below. Do not consent to be contacted and consider installing a call blocker. Never reveal any personal details to someone who contacts you. If you feel it is a scam, just hang up, this can be followed by a call to the real organization to verify the contact. And never let anyone force you into a rushed decision.
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Do Not Call registry: https://www.donotcall.gov/register.html