Full Notification

The Northfield Twp. Police wants to protect our community members from false and fraudulent Coronavirus information.

Per the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), scammers are taking advantage of fears surrounding the Coronavirus. Scammers are setting up websites to sell bogus products, and they are using fake emails, texts, and social media posts as a ruse to take your money and get your personal information.

Scammers are also requesting donations for victims, offering advice on unproven treatments, and setting up links that contain malicious email attachments.

Don’t become a victim · Don’t click on links from sources you don’t know. It could download a virus onto your computer or device. Make sure the anti-malware and anti-virus software on your computer is up to date.

· Ignore online offers for vaccinations.

· Do your homework when it comes to donations, whether through charities or funding sites and never donate using gift cards or by wiring money.

· Be cautious on investment opportunities.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to promote your best defense against the Coronavirus is to:

· Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

· Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose and mouth, with unwashed hands.

· Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

· Stay home when you’re sick.

· Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

· Clean and disinfect frequently touched items and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

· Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.

· CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.

· Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).

The FDA (Food & Drug Administration) advises that there are no approved vaccines, drugs or products currently available to treat or prevent the virus.

Both the Federal Trade Commission and the Food & Drug Administration state that companies have no evidence to back up claims.

If you are tempted to buy an unproven product or one with questionable claims, check with your doctor or other health care professional first.

To stay up to date and confirm information regarding this virus – visit the CDC website-
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
or visit the FDA https://www.fda.gov to learn of any approved treatments.

Should you come across any suspicious claims, or become a victim of a fraud, report the activity to the FTC at ftc.gov/complaint.

Remember keep your social distance (6 feet) – Be Safe & Be Smart – but do not Panic!