The Better Business Bureau of Mainland B.C. warns that scammers are targeting people looking to book COVID-19 tests.
CTV News reports British Columbians who recently received an unsolicited phone call, email or text message offering to help them book a COVID-19 test. The scammers might even ask to confirm an appointment that actually exists.
Access to PCR and rapid tests have been limited in the province due to the increase of cases and the BBB says scammers are contacting potential victims trying to access their personal information.
Personal information can include anything from names to birthdays to personal health numbers.
“In most cases, consumers will receive a phone call from someone claiming to be a medical professional or public health employee, asking you to make a COVID-19 test appointment,” the BBB said in a news release.
The BBB highlighted one case where a woman found a fake travel agency online and called the phone number hoping to get information on testing. “They proceeded to tell her that for them to write her an emergency note to allow her to travel and take a COVID-19 test, she would be required to send payment via Google gift cards,” the BBB said.
Those seeking a private test should only do so at an authorized clinic. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre has received reports of similar incidents.
Information on collection centres and authorized clinics is available on the B.C. Centre for Disease Control website or through Interior Health.
This article was originally sourced by www.castanet.com
