David M. DeVillers, Coronavirus Email Malware Schemes, Ohio 2020

Coronavirus Email Scams Hit Ohio: Be Cautious of Fake Safety Information Emails

COLUMBUS, Ohio – A wave of malicious emails has been spreading across Ohio, claiming to offer safety information about the coronavirus. However, these emails contain malicious programming that can harm computers, access users’ personal information, and cause financial harm.

U.S. Attorney David M. DeVillers is warning the public to be vigilant and think twice before clicking on links or responding to emails that claim to offer coronavirus safety information. Many of these emails contain malicious hyperlinks that can download malware onto your computer, compromising your sensitive information.

For example, some emails may promise to:

Tell you how to protect your friends from COVID-19 if you click a hyperlink
Directly connect you with a clinical contact if you reply and pay within a certain timeframe
Provide updated information from a health expert via a hyperlink

These emails are a clear attempt to deceive and scam unsuspecting individuals. U.S. Attorney DeVillers reminds the public to stay vigilant and only respond to emails from trusted sources.

If you receive an email that claims to offer coronavirus safety information, do not click on any links or respond to the email. Instead, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your local authorities. By staying informed and cautious, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from these malicious scams.

Stay safe, Ohio. Stay informed, and always be cautious when it comes to emails claiming to offer coronavirus safety information. Remember, if it seems too good (or bad) to be true, it probably is.

Protect yourself from coronavirus email scams. Report suspicious emails to the FTC or local authorities.

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