Forrest County Sheriff Charlie Sims is warning residents, especially vulnerable citizens, that predators, scammers and hackers will try to take advantage of the situation created by the unprecedented COVID-19 crisis.
“Be diligent in not only your self-isolation practices but also what news sources you read and distribute, Internet security, and thorough evaluation of suspicious emails, texts and calls,” he said. “It is critical to only trust news sources that cite their information directly from CDC, FEMA, MEMA, and other government organizations and not believe in unfounded speculation.”
Sims said his office recently released information about how to identify and prevent an individual from becoming a victim of a scam. “That information is even more relevant today,” he said.
The Internal Revenue Service will not call, text, or email you regarding the CARES Act stimulus, Sims said. Direct deposit will be utilized or official mail directly from the IRS will provide instructions on how to receive the stimulus check.
The Social Security Administration will also only communicate through official mail and will not call, text or email individuals regarding the CARES Act stimulus.
In addition to scammers, Sims said, residents might experience sales attempts for products with false claims. Currently there is no vaccine for COVID-19, and until the FDA approves otherwise, all official treatment will be carried out through licensed physicians at medical facilities.
“Do not purchase products that claim to prevent or cure this disease,” he said. “If you are experiencing symptoms, visit the Cold and Fever Clinic for testing immediately and isolate yourself until further notice from medical professionals.”
- For employers: Having your employees work from home is a great way to limit exposure, but your network may not be secure. Please visit https://www.sans.org/security-awareness-training/sans-security-awareness-work-home-deployment-kit to review how you can protect your business.
- Further Resources: For vulnerabilities in applications and operating systems, visit: http://cve.mitre.org
- For information about what the U.S. Government is doing amid the pandemic: https://www.usa.gov/coronavirus
- For official information from Mississippi Department of Health: https://msdh.ms.gov/msdhsite/_static/14,0,420.html or call the Corona Virus Hotline: 877-978-6453
- To report cybercrimes: https://www.ic3.gov
- To report price gouging: http://www.ago.state.ms.us or dial 601-359-4230
- For support if you’re a victim of cybercrime: https://fraudsupport.org or dial 2-1-1
“We are all in this together,” the sheriff added. “Our community has pulled through hurricanes, tornadoes, recessions and many other trying times. Forrest County, the Pine Belt, Mississippi, and the United States of America will come out of this, but in order to do so we need to remain vigilant in not only keeping ourselves and our families healthy but also protect against fraud and scams.
“In short, practice social distancing, remain home whenever possible, wash your hands, and take precautions to prevent becoming a cyber-crime victim,” he said.