Buzz
This week, the Better Business Bureau raised an alarm about the surge in COVID testing scams. The BBB highlighted that fraudulent websites and unreliable testing centers are exploiting COVID testing to steal personal and insurance details or profit illegally. Below are some strategies to help you steer clear of these deceptive practices.
The Mechanics of COVID Testing Scams
Fraudsters are creating professional-looking websites that appear to be linked to local pharmacies or testing facilities. These sites often appear in search results when you look for a testing center.
In one variation of the scam, the website allows you to schedule a test appointment. Upon arrival, you’ll be asked to complete a form requesting personal details, and copies of your driver’s license and insurance card will be taken. The scammers will conduct a “test” and assure you of results within a day or two, but these results never arrive because the entire operation is designed solely to collect your personal information.
In a more straightforward version of the scam, consumers complete an online form to book an appointment, often at what appears to be a legitimate testing center, providing personal details and sometimes paying a small fee. However, when they arrive at the Walgreen’s or testing site, no appointment exists because the site was fraudulent.
How to Identify and Avoid COVID Testing Scams
Only use official websites to set up appointments: Free COVID tests are available to everyone in the United States at pharmacies and test centers. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ website offers a database of COVID test providers in every U.S. state and territory. Your county’s website likely also lists testing centers, and you can ask your healthcare provider for recommendations.
Avoid testing sites that charge a fee: COVID tests are free, whether you visit a testing site or have the government mail you a test. According to the Better Business Bureau, “If someone insists you pay for a test, especially if they claim it will cost you hundreds of dollars, it’s a scam.” However, some legitimate services charge for speed or convenience, so treat such requests as a red flag and investigate further.
Watch out for lookalike websites: Many COVID scams use spoofed websites that mimic legitimate ones. Ensure the site is secure, and check for misspellings or unusual text in the URL.
Be wary of unsolicited calls and messages: If you receive an unexpected text, call, or email, do not share personal information. Legitimate companies and healthcare providers typically do not contact individuals without prior consent.
Read the fine print: The Better Business Bureau advises carefully reviewing any agreement you’re asked to sign, questioning where your personal information is stored and which lab processes the results. While this is generally good advice, scammers may still lie, but asking questions might expose inconsistencies and reveal the scam.
