Opportunists Knock: Contact Tracing Scams

It is a dizzying effort trying to keep one step ahead of con artists. Just when you think all bases have been covered and all loopholes tightly secured, another scam pops up. The process of contact tracing - helping to locate and identify people who may have been in contact with someone infected with COVID-19 - has opened yet another chance for shady entrepreneurs.

Contact tracers are people who have been hired either by local public health departments or hospital networks to help track down people who may have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.

Contact tracers usually use text messaging to let you know that someone will be calling to speak with you directly about the possible exposure and the necessary follow-up strategies such as self-quarantine  necessary to prevent the spread of the virus.  Legitimate contact tracers will not reveal the name of the person who may have been a carrier, nor will they ask you for any personal information. They will also not ask you to click on links in a text message, send money or give account numbers.

If you get a text from someone claiming to be a contact tracer, a legitimate message will not contain any links to more information. This is a "lure" to get you to install dangerous malware onto your computer or phone. An initial text will let you know you will be receiving a call from a contact tracer. When the call comes in, a genuine contact tracer will probably offer his/her badge number to you at the opening of the call. If not, you can ask them for it. You can also question who they work for and request a call back number to verify their authenticity. Then, consider ending the conversation and calling back. A valid contact tracer will honor your request.

Many contract tracing systems include an option for people to sign up for a daily text message during the 14-day quarantine. This is a reminder system that provides information on healthy practices and self-monitoring tips. 

A tactic or trick by schemers is to keep someone talking on the phone. When people find out that they could possibly have been exposed to the coronavirus, they often become anxious, and their guard goes down. It becomes quite easy for a scam artist to get you to share personal information, and once they have this, they can do all kind of damage to your accounts and credit.

Contact tracing is a valuable and useful strategy in the battle with this mysterious enemy known as COVID-19. Unfortunately, malicious people have seized the opportunity to contort this practice into something destructive. Experts recommend that you respond to this scam like all the others - by not clicking any links and by not sharing personal information on the internet or over the phone if asked or requested. If you do receive a call from a contact tracer, take it seriously but do not panic. Having this important information and knowing what to do benefits everyone.