Multiple federal agencies are alerting the public about potential scams related to COVID-19 vaccination fraud.
The FBI, Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services issued the warning Monday.
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Officials said potential signs of a scam include being asked to pay out of pocket for a vaccination; being asked to give a name for a waiting list or to get early access; advertisements from unknown sources; and marketers offering the vaccine for a payment.
Officials said the public should check their state department of health website for authorized vaccine distribution. Individuals should also consult their primary care physicians before taking any vaccination, officials said.
The FBI asks those who might be victims of fraud to report it.
The #FBI, @OIGatHHS, and @CMSGov are warning the public about fraud schemes related to #COVID19 vaccines. These agencies have received complaints about scammers using the public’s interest in the #vaccines to gather money and personal information. https://t.co/STGoTDO1Tw pic.twitter.com/5KxAsyrYOD
— FBI (@FBI) December 21, 2020
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