5 On Your Side

Three coronavirus scams to flag

The cellphone goes off with a text that says an acquaintance has coronavirus -- indicating a potential exposure risk.

Posted Updated

By
Monica Laliberte
, Executive producer/consumer reporter

The cellphone goes off with a text that says an acquaintance has coronavirus -- indicating a potential exposure risk.

It reads, click on the link for more information.

5 On Your Side's Monica Laliberte says don't do it, it's one of multiple new scams trying to get personal information.

cellphone, texting

While Google and Apple are working on a tracking system for this reason, it's not yet available.

Also, be on the lookout for emails.

One arrived about a termination package. It had the employee's name and company's name, supposedly from human resources. It provides a link to sign for a two-week payout.

Another email promises a bonus after confirmation and reply.

Under the current situation with coronavirus stress, both could be convincing either to someone expecting some sort of "hazard pay" or a layoff.

The links can provide a scammer access to the user's device and accounts and possibly introduce ransomware.

5 On Your Side says, always research the claim and verify the sender.

The few minutes it takes could prevent hassle and lost money.

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