Scammers targeting people who received COVID-19 vaccine, promising prices or cash

As if being wary of already existing scams weren’t enough, scammers are now targeting those who have received their dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and promising prices or money.

In the latest warning from the US Department of Justice, consumers are receiving surveys from scammers via email and SMS. Consumers are advised that as a freebie for completing the survey, they can be chosen for various prizes such as an iPad Pro. The post claims consumers only have to pay shipping and handling charges – which exposes the victim’s personal information, like their credit card number, to scammers.

SEE ALSO: Scammers Use Fake Vaccine Wait Lists to Target Victims

The Justice Department wants to remind people that unless the investigation is from a known and verified source, you should never click on links in posts claiming to be a vaccine investigation.

“Carefully review any message claiming to be from a business, and don’t click a link in an unsolicited email or text message. Remember, businesses don’t usually contact you to ask for your username or your password, “the department wrote on its website.

SEE ALSO: Increased use of vaccine passports could lead to scams, experts warn

If you receive a text or email claiming to be an investigation into the COVID-19 vaccine and containing a link to other contact information, the department asks you to report it to the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) at 866 -720-5721 or You can also file a report online at the Disaster Fraud website

If you believe you have been the victim of a scam site, the Justice Department has told you to visit the Federal Trade Commission Identity Theft website.