Don't Be a Victim of Coronavirus-related Scams
The men and women of the United States Secret Service are dedicated to protecting our nation from individuals and criminal organizations intent on causing harm during the current pandemic. The U.S. Secret Service is working in partnership with numerous federal, state, local, tribal and territorial law enforcement agencies to deter, prevent, investigate and prosecute criminals responsible for COVID-19-related fraud. The U.S. Secret Service also partners with industry and academia who are instrumental in identifying and reporting fraudulent activity.
To protect yourself from COVID-19-related fraud, remain vigilant and aware of the characteristics and signs of fraud schemes.
Be aware that criminals are using identities stolen from U.S. citizens to commit various crimes.
Common Cybersecurity Practices
basic_cyber_security.pdf_.jpgLearn how to stay safe online.
IdentityTheft.gov
Money-Mule.jpgIdentityTheft.gov can help you report and recover from identity theft.
Criminals are recruiting witting and unwitting money mules to transfer their criminal proceeds.
Don't Be a Mule
Money-Mule.jpgMoney laundering is a crime, and so is being a money mule.
Criminals are selling counterfeit personal protective equipment (PPE), medical supplies and COVID-19 vaccines. Criminals may promise delivery of non-existent supplies, and employ other schemes to defraud unsuspecting businesses and individuals eager for relief from the current global health crisis.
Online Sales and Auction Fraud
online_sales_and_auction_fraud.pdf_.jpgThere has been an increase in fraud associated with online sales and auctions
COVID-19 Vaccine Fraud
COVID VACCINE FRAUD_0.pdf_.jpgLearn how to avoid COVID-19 vaccine fraud
Criminals are using stolen identities to submit fraudulent applications, creating counterfeit government checks and stealing checks from mailboxes to divert much-needed government stimulus funds from unsuspecting individuals.
Know Your Treasury Check
Learn how to identify counterfeit U.S Treasury checks.
Main COVID-19 Resources
- COVID-19 Vaccine Fraud (PDF)
- DHS Response to Coronavirus Disease 2019
- Find a Vaccine | Vaccines.gov
- CDC.gov: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
- USA.gov: What the U.S. Government is Doing
- Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency (CIGIE) Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC)
- U.S. Government Response | USA.gov