LYME/OLD LYME — Ledge Light Health District have requested that we make readers aware of a new spate of scams related to the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines.

As vaccine distribution begins, here are signs of potential scams:

• You are asked to pay out-of-pocket to get the vaccine
• You are asked to pay to put your name on a vaccine waiting list or to get early access.
• Advertisements for vaccines through social media platforms, emails, phone calls, online or from unknown/unsolicited sources.
• Marketers offering to sell or ship doses of the vaccine for payment.

Protect yourself. Do not give out personal information to unknown sources.

If you believe you have a victim of COVID-19 fraud, immediately report it to:

• HHS-OIG Hotline: 1.800-HHS-Tips: tips.hhs.gov
• FBI Hotline: 1-800-CALLFBI: ic3.gov
• CMS/Medicare Hotline: 1-800-Medicare

Other tips include:

• Avoid online offers for coronavirus-related vaccines or cures.
• Be wary of emails, calls and social media posts advertising “free” or government-ordered COVID-19 tests. Check the FDA website for a list of approved tests and testing companies.
• Don’t click on links or download files from unexpected emails, even if the email address looks like a company or person you recognize. Ditto for text messages and unfamiliar websites.
• Don’t share personal information such as Social Security, Medicare and credit card numbers in response to an unsolicited call, text or email.
• Be skeptical of fundraising calls or emails for COVID-19 victims or virus research, especially if they pressure you to act fast and request payment by prepaid debit cards or gift cards.
• Ignore phone calls or emails from strangers urging you to invest in a hot new coronavirus stock.