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Feds Crack Down on COVID-19 Scams in Eastern Washington
Spokane, Washington – In a desperate bid to exploit the national emergency caused by COVID-19, scammers are selling fake at-home test kits, offering unproven treatments, and posing as medical professionals to demand payment.
US Attorney William D. Hyslop announced that the US Attorney’s Office, together with its law enforcement partners, is fully operational and continues to fulfill its public safety mission, including ferreting out COVID-19 fraud schemes.
“Make no mistake, the Eastern District of Washington’s federal prosecutors and support staff are working with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement to safeguard our justice system and protect the safety and security of our nation during this challenging time,” said Attorney Hyslop.
If you (or someone you know) believe you have been the target or victim of a coronavirus-related scam, you are strongly encouraged to make a report to the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline (866.720.5721), or to the NCDF email address (disaster@leo.gov).
The NCDF is a national coordinating agency within the Criminal Division, and its mission is to improve and further the detection, prevention, investigation, and prosecution of criminal conduct related to emergencies, such as the COVID-19 outbreak.
The public may also make such reports to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center by visiting www.IC3.gov. The FBI is alert to fraudsters attempting to exploit the COVID-19 outbreak and has extensive expertise in cybercrime.
The US Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington has appointed a Coronavirus Coordinator to oversee prosecution of coronavirus-related cases and support public outreach and awareness activities.
Fraudsters devise numerous methods for defrauding people, including creating websites, contacting people by phone and email, and posting disinformation on social media platforms.
Examples of scams linked to COVID-19 include testing scams, treatment scams, provider scams, phishing scams, and app scams.
The NCDF Hotline is available to receive reports from the public of potential fraud 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Callers will be connected with a live operator or can leave a message detailing their report.
Crime tips of any kind, including alleged civil rights violations, can be submitted to the FBI by visiting tips.fbi.gov or by calling the FBI Seattle Field Office at 206.622.0460.
Key Facts
- State: Washington
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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