U.S. Attorney warns public of COVID-19 contact tracing frauds

BILLINGS—U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme today warned Montanans to be aware of COVID-19 contact tracing scams in which someone steals personal identifying information while posing as a government or health care representative.

The Department of Justice is getting reports that contact tracing fraud is an emerging nationwide scam. Contact tracing is a process to help stop the spread of the coronavirus by identifying people who have come into contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 and instructing them to quarantine and monitor symptoms.

"Don't be fooled by imposter tracers. Scammers calling or texting and saying, 'I'm with the health department and I need your Social Security number or bank account information…' have been effective at stealing personal identification information. A legitimate contact tracer will not ask for money or information like your Social Security number or bank account number. During this time, stay healthy and keep your money safe," U.S. Attorney Alme said.

For more information about COVID-19 contact tracing scams and tips to protect yourself from identity theft and financial fraud, visit the Federal Trade Commission at: https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2020/05/covid-19-contact-tracing-text-message-scams.

To report COVID-19 related frauds, contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud at 866-720-5721 or disaster@leo.gov.

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