Attorney General Phil Weiser warns Coloradans to be on the lookout for Coronavirus scams

Beware of fake claims, phony websites, and phishing attempts

March 12, 2020 (DENVER, Colo.) — Attorney General Phil Weiser has issued a consumer alert warning Colorado residents about scams related to COVID-19, also known as Coronavirus.

There have been reports that scammers are setting up websites to sell bogus products and using fake emails, texts, and social media posts to lure consumers into giving money and personal information. They also may be asking consumers to donate to victims, marketing fake treatments, or sending malicious email attachments.

“Scammers take advantage of natural disasters and emergencies,” said Weiser. “By learning how to avoid scams related to Coronavirus, we can work together to ensure no one in our state is taken in by these malicious attempts to defraud Colorado consumers during this public health emergency.”

The following are ways to avoid Coronavirus scams:

  • Consumers should beware of online offers for vaccinations. There are currently no vaccines, pills, potions, lotions, lozenges, or other prescription or over-the-counter products available to treat or cure Coronavirus.
  • Consumers should not click on links from sources they don’t know. Those links could download viruses into their computer or device.
  • Watch for emails claiming to be from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or experts saying they have information about the virus.
  • Charity sites or people asking for donations in cash, by gift card, or by wiring money, should not be trusted. Check the validity of charity websites by going to www.charitynavigator.org or www.charitywatch.org.

The office’s Consumer Protection Division has been in contact with representatives from Amazon to coordinate efforts to address potential price gouging on items such as paper products, cleaning supplies, hand sanitizer and soap, and other goods. It is important for Colorado consumers to remain vigilant and report any scams. With these reports, the Attorney General’s Office will be able to work with other law enforcement agencies, including on a national level, to protect Colorado consumers and stop fraudsters.

If you notice any scams, fraud, price gouging, or other attempts to take advantage of Coloradans during this public health emergency, contact Stop Fraud Colorado at 800-222-4444 or www.StopFraudColorado.gov.

For the most accurate, up-do-date information about Coronavirus, go to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or the World Health Organization websites.

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Lawrence Pacheco
Director of Communications
(720) 508-6553
Lawrence.Pacheco@coag.gov