U.S. Federal Trade Commission Issues Consumer Alert Regarding Fake Covid Tests

One thing about COVID is that it has created a lot of new scams. This is a time around it involves fake COVID tests.

This week the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued a consumer alert about fake tests, the Daily News reported.

Those who choose to take a rapid home test must vet the tests that are being sold on the internet because they may not detect the virus if it’s a fake one.

Scammers have acted quickly to take advantage of the increased demand for home tests.

Luckily, there are tools in place to help people not get got by the scammers.

First and foremost, people should check for FDA approval. Meaning the FDA has tested the test and found it to be a legit testing kit. But anyone can add “FDA APPROVED,” so it’s best to check the test against the FDA’s list of approved tests and make sure it’s on there.

The agency lists antigen diagnostic (rapid) tests and molecular diagnostic tests (PCR) to help people be on the safe side.

They should also say “EUA,” which stands for “emergency use authorization.”

The FTC also recommends searching online for the testing website, company, or seller’s name, along with words such as “scam,” “complaint,” or “review.”

Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody, who issued a consumer alert of her own, said to buy products only from a “well-established, legitimate store or website.”

Comparing online reviews from websites will also help consumers legitimize tests.

“People should also be aware of private companies that offer free or reduced-cost at-home testing services, mainly those that request private information to make an appointment,” Moody’s office said. “Watch out for private companies that require the personal information to sign up for an at-home testing service but will not guarantee an appointment time.”

Fake testing sites are also on the rise, the Orlando Sentinel reported Thursday. Moody warned residents about “new and re-emerging COVID-19 test scams” as omicron increases in cases and emphasized the importance of vigilance.

“With more and more people seeking tests, scammers may be exploiting this demand to steal personal, financial, or medical information,” her office said in a statement. “There are recent reports in Florida and nationwide of potential fake COVID-19 testing sites, imposter health care workers at legitimate sites, and at-home testing scams.”