USPIS Warning Public About Coronavirus Scams By Mail
Scams come in all forms – by phone, text and email. However, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) discovered another kind of fraud happening through snail-mail – a COVID-19 scam that could endanger people’s lives.
In response, the agency set up a website section dedicated to helping people spot the online and offline scam being used. It also provides several useful public service videos about the actions the USPIS was implementing and other tips people could use to protect themselves from being scammed.
USPIS said it had seen a massive spike in the number of fraudulent personal protective equipment offered. The agency’s warning said scammers were developing fake websites, shops, email addresses and social media accounts under the guise of selling medical-grade PPE supplies and other things such as surgical masks, gloves and disinfectant wipes.
According to the USPIS, buying products through these means allow the scammers to pocket buyers’ hard-earned money and never delivering the goods. The agency advises people to buy their PPE through legitimate sources and to research the vendor and website for complaints before buying.
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission has also gotten involved to protect consumers from false, misleading claims about coronavirus products and treatments. The agency sent over 20 firms letters that accuse them of making uncorroborated claims about how to prevent or treat COVID-19. This is the agency’s third batch of similar warnings that’s been recently issued.
The FTC provided a comprehensive list of alleged offenders that include but is not limited to:
- Alkaline for Life at the Center for Better Bones
- Blessed Maine Herb Farm
- Merge Medical CenterPrana IV Therapy
- Windhorse Naturopathic Clinic
- Stemedix, Inc.
You can find the full list at https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2020/04/ftc-sends-21-letters-warning-marketers-stop-making-unsupported?utm_source=govdelivery
It’s important to remember that there is no current vaccine or cure for COVID-19. Numerous treatments are being tested, but nothing close to a remedy to coronavirus. Check out the CDC’s website (www.cdc.gov) to get the latest information about the progress of this deadly disease. CWP
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