Protect Yourself from COVID-19 Contact Tracing Scams
Contact tracing is the process of identifying who has been exposed to people who have tested positive for a disease. Contact tracing is now being used in the fight against COVID-19. UW employees should be aware that scammers are posing as contact tracers in order to commit identity theft. You may receive a scam text message asking you for personal information, such as your social security number, bank account, or credit card number. A legitimate contact tracer will never ask you for money or personal information. Do not click on any links sent to you by someone claiming to be a contract tracer. Scams related to COVID-19 testing are also increasing. The Federal Trade Commission offers more information in English and Spanish at consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2020/05/covid-19-contact-tracing-text-message-scams.