Attorney general warns of virus vaccine scams

Watch out for scams related to the deployment of a federally-approved vaccine for COVID-19, says Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring.

Scams could include selling medications, treatments or vaccines that purport to prevent or cure the coronavirus, Herring notes in a press release.

“I want to urge all Virginians to remain vigilant and make sure you do your research before giving your money to anyone purporting to be selling a COVID vaccine or treatment,” Herring said.

A few things to remember and look out for to avoid becoming the victim of a COVID vaccine-related scam:

• Always make sure that you consult a medical professional or a doctor to get the COVID-19 vaccine or treatment.

• Do not buy any kind of COVID-19 vaccine or treatment over the internet or through an online pharmacy.

• Make sure that your doctor or physician is approved to administer any kind of COVID-19 vaccine or treatment.

• Ignore any unsolicited or “too good to be true” offers for vaccines, miracle cures or treatments.

• Be wary of any online ads you may see for COVID-19 vaccines or treatments on social media.

• Do not respond to any unsolicited emails, text messages, or calls that are offering any kind of COVID-19 vaccine or treatment.

• Always talk with your doctor or another healthcare professional before you try any product claiming to treat, cure, or prevent COVID-19.

• Head to CDC.gov for clear and concise information on COVID-19. Additionally, visit the Food and Drug Administration’s Resources page to find out about treatments in development: https://www.fda.gov/patients/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19-resources-patients.

Virginians who have any questions or concerns or believe they may have been the victim of a COVID vaccine-related scam should reach out to Herring’s Consumer Protection Section by phone at 800/552-9963 or email to consumer@oag.state.va.us.