As North Carolinians begin receiving COVID-19 vaccinations, the NC Department of Justice is warning about an increase in vaccine-related scams. Here are five things to keep in mind as the vaccines are rolled out:
- Everyone who wants a vaccine can have one. Even if you don’t have health insurance, COVID-19 vaccine will be available for free for most people. Those with health insurance should bring this information with them to their vaccination appointment.
- Beware of solicitations. Anyone who calls, texts, messages, emails, or posts to social media that you can pay to have the vaccine reserved for you or mailed to you is a scammer.
- Legitimate providers will not request your bank account, Social Security, or credit card number to get the vaccine. Beware of websites made to resemble legitimate health department or health care provider websites.
- No identification, immigration status, or social security number is required to receive the vaccine. Immigrants regardless of legal status can receive the vaccine without worry of their information being provided to ICE or their immigration status being affected. Any information provided is kept confidential and cannot be shared with ICE or immigration enforcement.
- Stay up to date. The best place to learn about vaccine availability and when you may be eligible to receive the vaccine is the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services “Your Spot, Your Shot” website.
To learn more about vaccine availability in Mecklenburg County, call the Mecklenburg County Health Department’s Public Health Hotline, 980-314-9400 or visit their website.
Learn more about scams related to COVID-19 Vaccine
“Stay Safe from COVID-19 Vaccine Scams” (N.C. Department of Justice)
“Federal Agencies Warn of Emerging Fraud Schemes Related to COVID-19 Vaccines” (F.B.I.)