By Laura Keil
(with files from RCMP)
Robson Valley RCMP say they have already received calls in relation to COVID-19 frauds.
RCMP say these frauds include private companies offering ‘fast’ covid-19 tests for sale. RCMP remind residents that only hospitals are currently authorized to perform the tests and no other tests are genuine or guaranteed to provide accurate results.
Another reported problem is consumers purchasing large amounts of products and reselling them at higher prices. RCMP say these products may be expired, of lower quality and increase your health risks. It is currently illegal to re-sell these products.
RCMP say fraudsters are creating fraudulent and deceptive online ads offering cleaning products, hand sanitizers and other items in high demand.
The FTC & FDA (USA) have warned several companies selling fraudulent products that claim to treat or prevent the disease (No such products have been approved. The unapproved drugs threaten public health and violate federal laws).
RCMP say fraudsters posing as police have been imposing on-the-spot fines to consumers wearing masks. They claim that wearing a mask in public goes against a full-face veil law (It is not illegal to wear a mask for health reasons).
RCMP also warn of fraudsters who may urge you to invest in hot new stocks related to the disease and who are sending phishing, spear phishing and other malicious email campaigns that capitalize on the public’s fears about Covid-19. There have also been reports of fraudulent and deceptive online ads offering cleaning products, hand sanitizers and other items in high demand.
The latest federal information on COVID-19 is available at:
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19.html
To confirm if a charity is registered:
https://apps.craarc.gc.ca/ebci/hacc/srch/pub/dsplyBscSrch?request_locale=en
RCMP remind residents that if you are unsure about an offer, remember if it sounds too good to be true it probably is and to hang-up, don’t click the link and contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
If you think you or someone you know has been a victim of fraud, please contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or report online at: www.antifraudcentre.ca.
