Calls and Emails Pretending to Be From CDC: How to Spot Scams

Fake calls from "CDC"

People have been getting phone calls that appear to come from CDC on caller ID, or voicemails from someone claiming to be with the agency — some asking for donations. They are a scam: government impersonation fraud.

• Spoofing is easy. Apps and free websites let anyone make a call look like it comes from any number. It does not mean your phone was hacked; just hang up.
• Blocking is hard. Current technology can't easily stop spoofed calls on business or personal lines.
• Scammers are organized and tech-savvy, and often target young people and older adults.

Protect yourself

• Be wary of calls from numbers you don't recognize.
• Federal agencies do not ask the public for donations.
• Never give out banking information, your Social Security number or other personal details over the phone or to people you don't know.
• Report these calls to the Federal Communications Commission.

Phishing emails

Cyber criminals exploit interest in public health emergencies to send themed phishing emails whose links and attachments carry malware — able to take over health care IT systems and steal information.

• Don't open unsolicited email from people you don't know, and be wary of third-party sources.
• Hover over a link to see where it really goes, and don't click links in emails: if the address looks right, type it into your browser.
• Be careful with attachments.
• Never send personal information, especially passwords, by email.

More guidance is available from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, the Federal Trade Commission and the Department of Justice.

Sources

Based on "Phone Scams and Phishing Attacks," Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; a work of the United States government in the public domain.