COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Better Business Bureau of Central Ohio, as well as federal health agencies, are warning consumers about scams involving at-home COVID-19 test kits and testing clinics.
According to BBB, people were asked to provide credit cards or other personal information in order to receive a test.
The organization added that the person selling the test doesn't provide information about how the test works, where it is sourced and which health lab processed the test results.
“Scammers are great at capitalizing on current events and problems, so what we're seeing is with a shortage of at-home test and the long lines for testing and testing sites, that both fake testing kits and fake testing sites are starting to pop up,” said Judy Dollison, President, Central Ohio BBB.
The Better Business Bureau says, when it comes to at-home test kits, they’re seeing phishing scams, when you receive an email or phone call asking for personal information.
“It may not be a legitimate kit, it may be expired and you may never get test results from it,” said Dollison.
BBB advises consumers to never share personal information with strangers.
The organization also encourages people wanting a COVID-19 test to speak with their doctor or health provider. People can also visit their health department's website.