Protect Yourself From Scams, Frauds, and Hoaxes Related to COVID-19
Scams may be directly related to the COVID-19 virus, but also related scarcity caused by a pandemic, such as a high demand for hand cleaners, masks, disinfectants, and paper products.
Do not respond directly or click on links in messages you receive via text, phone call or email; especially from an unknown or untrusted source and particularly those involving:
CDC Impersonators
These can come as fake phone calls, emails, social media posts, or web sites.
Phishing Attacks
The most common are regarding:
- Economic stimulus checks
- Charitable contributions to dubious organizations
- Fake cures, treatments, and testing kits
- Refunds or cancelations from airlines and shipping companies
Counterfeit Equipment
This includes bogus personal protective equipment (masks, gowns, gloves) and diluted or ineffective sanitizers and cleaning products.
Relief Lending
Beware of imposters promising Small Business Administration (SBA) or Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. Verify the source, and contact Direct Financial if you have any questions.
Unemployment Check Fraud
The US Secret Service has warned of significant fraud committed against state unemployment programs. If you receive a deposit from an unemployment program that you did not expect, please contact Direct Financial, and do not respond to any unknown person that contacts you asking you to “return” the money. If you apply for unemployment and receive a message that someone has already applied with your name and SSN, contact the state unemployment office immediately.
If you believe you have given your personal Direct Financial banking information to an imposter, please call our Contact Center at 800.966.8200 immediately for assistance.
