The response to COVID-19 has brought out the best in so many. Thousands of people across the Greater New Haven area have volunteered to help others in this time of need.

Unfortunately, COVID-19 has brought out the worst in a few. Scams related to potential cures and the government stimulus programs have multiplied. Protect yourself and your family by being vigilan. Some basic rules to follow are:

Never give personal information, especially Social Security, Medicare ID, or bank account numbers over the phone or in response to emails.
- Be especially aware of those who want you to “verify” your information. The IRS and Social Security Administration do not need to confirm these. Its most likely a scam.
Avoid offers to “help” you apply for federal stimulus money. If you filed a tax return for 2018 or 2019, you will be sent your stimulus check automatically.
At this point, there are no known cures or tests for COVID-19. Ignore anyone trying to sell you these, they are a scam.

Complete information is updated by the Agency on Aging of South Central Connecticut. They are great resource and can be found at https://www.aoascc.org/News-and-Events/coronavirus-information-and-resources/scams-and-fraud/.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has a frequently updated site on scams at https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/scam-alerts

Many of the people we serve are among the most vulnerable. If you need help or have questions, we will do our best to connect you to the appropriate resources in the community. Be safe and careful.

Matthew and Mary Elizabeth