Attorney General Nessel shares tips to avoid COVID-related scams

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel wants to warn Michiganders to not fall for fake advertisements or scams related to treatments of COVID-19.

Not too long ago, Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita and Indiana State Health Commissioner Dr. Kristina Box alerted Hoosiers of a similar scam, targeting consumers who have received their COVID-19 vaccine.

Con artists are counting on consumers’ fears and emotions to profit from the challenge of this pandemic by selling unproven products that make false claims to cure, treat, or prevent COVID-19.

These fraudulent products have not been evaluated by the FDA for safety and effectiveness and might actually be dangerous to you and your family.

Attorney General Nessel said, “we’re at a point in this pandemic where we can see the light at the end of the tunnel, but bad actors are trying to take advantage of that collective hope by making false promises.”

She continued, “please continue to do your research and use trusted sources before making any decision that may affect your health.”

Additionally, it’s important to always remember:

• be suspicious of any product that is not recommended by a doctor;
• never purchase so-called treatment over the internet;
• if you get a text, email, or phone call from someone you don’t know about a vaccine or treatment, don’t respond or send your personal information; and
• if you’re looking for the COVID-19 vaccine, visit your doctor, a trusted pharmacy, or your local health department for your shots.

If you have any concerns, or are seeking more information on these scams, please visit https://www.michigan.gov/ag/0,4534,7-359-81903_20942-546758--,00.html for more information.