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Maricopa County Sheriff's Office warns against scammers during COVID-19

KNXV MCSO
Posted at 4:12 PM, Mar 18, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-18 19:26:33-04

PHOENIX — The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office is warning the public, especially the elderly, against scammers trying to take advantage of the COVID-19 outbreak to make money.

FULL COVERAGE: Everything you need to know about coronavirus

MCSO is asking the community to look out for these potential scams:

Scammers calling seniors identifying themselves to be from medical organizations claiming to have a vaccine against COVID-19 and having a limited supply of the vaccine and requiring over-the-phone payment.

Scammers calling seniors claiming their loved one is at the hospital infected with COVID-19 and his/her health insurance does not cover treatment and asking for over-the-phone payment in order for him/her to receive the treatment they need.

"Remember that there is no vaccine for this virus at the moment," Sheriff Penzone said. "I will continue to work with our local, state and federal partners on a weekly basis on all aspects of COVID-19."

MCSO says while no cases have been reported, they want to want the public to be aware.

If you feel that you have been a victim of a COVID-19 scam, call 602-876-TIPS (8477).