TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — COVID-19 testing is taking a lot longer than it used to and scammers are taking advantage of the situation.
The FBI says to look out for con-artists marketing unapproved COVID-19 antibody tests.
Their goal is to rip off your personal and health insurance information so it can later be used for identity theft or medical insurance fraud.
"Make no quick decisions,” says Sue McConnell of the Better Business Bureau. “Be aware these scam artists are out there trying to get to us from all angels. Make an informed decision.”
This is just the latest in a long list of warnings from the FBI. There are PPE, phony grants, and job scams all connected to this pandemic.
"The ones coming across social media, email, or phone calls are not legit,” says special agent Vicki Anderson. “Those are probably a scam, they might not ask you for money right away but you may end up being a victim of identity theft."
The FBI recommends checking the FDA website for a list of approved antibody test companies, as well as these other tips:
- Always consult your doctor first
- Use labs approved by your health insurance
- Be cautious about sharing health information
- Double-check medical bills
