COVID-19 testing scams prevalent, but not in Coshocton
COSHOCTON — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is warning people to be aware of fraudulent coronavirus tests, vaccines and treatments amid the spike in COVID-19 cases, according to the Better Business Bureau.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recently reported the need for COVID-19 tests increased with the arrival of Omicron, but suppliers are facing a shortage of tests resulting in a number of fake pop-up testing locations and other scams.
The Better Business Bureau said the scams involve at-home testing kits and clinics that promise rapid results.
"However, in order to receive said test, a credit card or form with personal information is needed before any test can be administered," the BBB said in a press release. "Then the person selling the test fails to provide information about how the test works, where it is sourced and which health lab processed the test results."
The Coshocton County Sheriff's Office and the Coshocton County Health Department said no such scams have been reported yet in Coshocton County.
Individuals who want a test can contact their health care provider or visit one of the testing locations in the county.
On-site testing is available at Coshocton Regional Medical Center Urgent Care, Muskingum Valley Health Centers Urgent Care, Family Urgent Care, Walgreens Pharmacy and Rite Aid Pharmacy.
Steven Lonsinger, commissioner of the Coshocton County Health Department, said the department's supply of free at-home test kits have been depleted. He does expect any more this month. He said residents can check with their insurance provider on coverage or reimbursement for the cost of testing or testing kits.
Otherwise, consumers can start with searching BBB.org to see if the company selling tests are BBB accredited and if they have good consumer reviews.
Review the warnings from the FBI, Federal Trade Commission and the Attorney General’s office prior to purchasing a test from an unknown supplier.
The CDC has a detailed guide for COVID-19 testing and the DDA website contains a list of approved tests and their testing companies.
The BBB says to never share your personal information with strangers.
"Only make purchases and only share personal information with people and companies that you know and trust," said BBB officials in the release. "And, be wary of anyone who approaches you in a testing line and ask for credentials, if necessary."
If you suspect your personal information has been compromised, report the situation to identitytheft.gov.
Daily-Jeffersonian reporter Rick Stillion contributed to this article.
This article originally appeared on Coshocton Tribune: COVID-19 testing scams prevalent, but not in Coshocton
