Beware of Coronavirus Scams

Promotion of products that claim to prevent, treat, or cure the coronavirus. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), "There currently are no vaccines, pills, potions, lotions, lozenges or other prescription or over-the-counter products available to treat or cure Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)—online or in stores.”

Requests for money for fraudulent charities. If someone wants donations in cash, by gift card, or by wiring money, don’t do it. See the FTC's How to donate wisely and avoid charity scams.

Misinformation. Beware of emails and social media postings that claim to be from experts. For the most up-to-date information about the coronavirus, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Phishing. The U.S. Secret Service is reporting a number of phishing scams related to the virus. People may receive a phishing email claiming to be from a medical/health organization that links to fraudulent sites where people are asked to enter their email, password and other identity information. The attachments contain malware. Report any suspicious emails to the NU Cybersecurity office at its-sec@nebraska.edu or phishing@nebraska.edu.

COVID-19 tracking maps with malware. Attackers are circulating links to malicious websites disguised as COVID-19 maps, either on social media or through misleading emails. Opening one of these sites prompts the user to install an applet that infects their device with malware that steals data such as login credentials and banking information. Stick to verified COVID-19 tracking maps and double-check the URL of linked websites before clicking.