As the United States gradually reopens amidst the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, incidents of deception have taken a new form. Recent alerts from health authorities indicate that individuals may receive fraudulent text messages from those posing as COVID-19 contact tracers. These messages may claim that you have been exposed to the virus, but they could be an attempt to extract your personal information.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued a warning regarding this nefarious scheme, which can appear strikingly authentic. Recipients have reported receiving texts stating: “You have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. It is recommended that you self-isolate and get tested,” often accompanied by a link for further details. However, this link is a significant warning sign of a scam. The FTC cautions that clicking it could result in the installation of malicious software on your device, enabling hackers to access sensitive data.
How to Safeguard Yourself
To safeguard yourself, follow these straightforward guidelines: if you receive a text from someone claiming to be a COVID-19 contact tracer, do not act on it. Specifically, do not click any links provided. Genuine messages from health departments will typically inform you that a phone call will follow, without soliciting any actions or personal data via text. As the FTC highlights, “Unlike legitimate messages from health departments, these texts contain links to click.”
The Role of Contact Tracers
Contact tracers play a crucial role in public health efforts, collaborating with infected individuals to compile a list of contacts who may have been exposed. The FTC elaborates on their responsibilities: “They gather names and phone numbers of those who came into close proximity with an infected person during their contagious period.” If a legitimate contact tracer reaches out, expect a follow-up phone call rather than a text demanding immediate action.
Reducing Unwanted Messages
To reduce the likelihood of receiving these unwanted messages, consider utilizing your phone’s settings to filter or block texts from unknown sources. Many wireless providers also offer services to help manage spam texts, and various call-blocking applications can assist in this effort. Ignoring suspicious messages is the most effective approach; if it is indeed a contact tracer, they will follow up with a phone call.
Additional Resources
For more information on related topics, you can explore our post on artificial insemination, which provides insights into home insemination techniques. Additionally, Make a Mom is a reliable source for home insemination kits. For a comprehensive understanding of the topic, visit Wikipedia’s entry on artificial insemination.
Conclusion
In summary, remain vigilant against potential scams masquerading as COVID-19 contact tracing messages. Always verify the source and avoid clicking on suspicious links. By staying informed and cautious, you can protect your personal information during these uncertain times.