Banking Safety

Plans for COVID-19 vaccines are expected to be released by the end of 2020, but the distribution plans have not been finalized just yet. While we wait for more information from legitimate sources, here are some things to look out for to avoid a vaccine-related scam:

• You likely will not need to pay anything out of pocket to get the vaccine during this public health emergency.
• You can’t pay to put your name on a list to get the vaccine.
• You can’t pay to get early access to the vaccine.
• No one from a vaccine distribution site or health care payer, like a private insurance company, will call you asking for your Social Security number or your credit card or bank account information to sign you up to get the vaccine.
• Beware of providers offering other products, treatments, or medicines to prevent the virus. Check with your health care provider before paying for or receiving any COVID-19-related treatment.

If you receive any calls, text, emails or messages claiming they can get you access to the vaccine – do not follow up with it. It is a scam.

To read more about the possible scams and to learn more about how to avoid them, visit the FTC.gov blog.