Contact Tracing – Spot the REAL Text from the FAKE

I would love to say that Corona virus scams have slowed down but unfortunately they keep on coming. As you know, scammers follow the headlines. Get ready for the newest scam surrounding Covid-19, Contact Tracing. Read the important alert below from the Colorado Department of Health and Environment.

Additionally, Government imposter scams continue to rise. Our office, along with other agencies, are seeing an uptick in imposter scams. Please help us spread the word to friends and family that you will NEVER be asked to provide your social security number, your banking information or any other personal information over the phone. Even if your caller ID indicates the call is from a “legitimate” agency, scammers can spoof phone numbers. If you are asked for any personal information, HANG-UP, it is SCAM CALL!

I know these are difficult times for many people who are without jobs or are home insecure. These vulnerabilities are exactly what scammers prey on. Be cautious.

To help boost your critical thinking when you receive a call or text, ask yourself:

1.   Who is the call or text from — are you sure? Can you validate who the caller is?
2.   What do they want me to do? Buy something or provide information? Is there any evidence to support the reality of what is being asked of you?
3. Don’t be afraid to hang-up and do some research before you believe a message that comes from out of nowhere.

As your mother used to say, “if it sounds too good to be true…” well, you know the rest.

As always, be safe.

ALERT – COLORADO CONTACT TRACING INFORMATION

ALERT – COLORADO CONTACT TRACING INFORMATION The Colorado Department of Health and Environment (CDPHE) and local public health departments are developing a survey to aid in tracking the spread of COVID-19 and notifying people who may have been exposed to the disease. The new contact tracing survey could go live in some places as early as July. CDPHE and local public health agencies will distribute the survey using a text message with a link to a secure form. The survey will never ask recipients to provide their social security number or any information related to their banking or finances. The text will come from a phone number that will be posted on the covid19.colorado.gov website, or it will come from the number 31096.  Check the website before you respond to any text to confirm you are responding to a verified public health agency.