Florida bill would make vaccine scams a third-degree felony in the state
There have been several reports of scammers targeting seniors, offering to schedule them for a vaccine but requiring personal information and a fee. Now, state lawmakers are fast-tracking a bill to make these kinds of scams a third-degree felony.
By: WFTS Staff
and last updated 2021-01-14 17:28:46-05
PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. â Meg Bourbonniere is a recently retired nurse who specialized in geriatric patients. Itâs why she is very protective of older adults who are at risk for many types of abuse.
âFinancial, emotional, physical, so people are always looking to take advantage of vulnerable people,â she said.
The town of Longboat Key is urging residents to remain wary of potential scams related to COVID-19 vaccine distribution.
The good news is Deputy Police Chief Frank Rubino said the town has not had any reports of COVID-19 scams as of Thursday afternoon.
“We’re frustrated when any of our people get scammed,” Rubino said.
Earlier this month, the town shared a Facebook post from the Sarasota Police Department about the things people should look for, including:
If you’re asked to pay out of pocket to get the vaccine.
Advertisements for vaccines through social media platforms, email, telephone calls, online or from unknown sources.
There have been several reports of scammers targeting seniors, offering to schedule them for a vaccine but requiring personal information and a fee. Now, state lawmakers are fast-tracking a bill to make these kinds of scams a third-degree felony.
7 On Your Side helps you protect your identity and your money.
It s the latest COVID con job. Too good to be true offers, for just a few bucks let you jump the line to get a dose of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine currently not offered to the general public.
But, be wary before you click on an attachment or fork over any funds.
Would you pay $250 to get the COVID-19 vaccine? That s what scammers are hoping. Phony offers are on the dark web. A vial of vaccine provides them hundreds in Bitcoin.
The next scam is phishing attacks. The phony emails spoof a health care provider, saying you can reserve your vaccine today just fill out the form. When you do, you ll be giving your personal information to an ID thief.