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Learn how to avoid coronavirus robocall and text scams, sanitize cell phones, improve home network performance, and more.
FCC tips can help consumers avoid coronavirus robocall and text scams, sanitize cell phones, improve home network performance, and more.

Affordable Connectivity Program

The Emergency Broadband Benefit is now the Affordable Connectivity Program. Consumers looking for information on how eligible households can qualify and enroll can find it by visiting ACPBenefit.org.

Phone Hygiene

Your mobile phone may be the item you touch the most throughout the day. Use these simple tips to keep your device clean.

Home Network Optimization

Since working and studying from home is the new normal for millions of Americans, learn how you can optimize your home network during the pandemic.

Video Conferencing

As you connect online to work, learn, or gather with family and friends, follow these tips to help keep your video conference secure.

  

  

Sample Delivery Scam Text



  Text Message
  Today 9:34 AM
 
  Hi, we are having issues releasing
  your package
 
  Please update shipping directions
  ca.trcck.com/.1ebf9d
 
  Reply Stop to Opt Out
 
 
 
 

Test Kit Phone Scam Audio

Audio transcript: ...[The Coronavirus] Response Act has made coronavirus testing more accessible immediately. If you want to receive a free testing kit delivered overnight to your home, press 1. If you do not want your free testing, press 2. (Audio source: YouMail)

COVID-19 Consumer Scams

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, identity thieves and imposter scammers use text messages and robocalls to prey on consumers' virus-related fears.

Tips for Avoiding COVID-19 Scams

  • Do not respond to calls or texts from unknown numbers, or any others that appear suspicious.
  • Never share your personal or financial information via email, text messages, or over the phone.
  • Be cautious if you're being pressured to share any information or make a payment immediately.
  • Scammers often spoof phone numbers to trick you into answering or responding. Remember that government agencies will never call you to ask for personal information or money.
  • Do not click any links in a text message. If a friend sends you a text with a suspicious link that seems out of character, call them to make sure they weren't hacked.
  • Always check on a charity (for example, by calling or looking at its actual website) before donating. (Learn more about charity scams.)

If you think you've been a victim of a coronavirus scam, contact law enforcement immediately. File coronavirus scam complaints online with the Federal Trade Commission.

For more information about scam calls and texts, visit the FCC Consumer Help Center and the FCC Scam Glossary.

The FCC has continued to process informal consumer complaints throughout the pandemic. View data, by category, for informal consumer complaints related to COVID-19 and the Keep Americans Connected Pledge. Learn more about the FCC response to the pandemic at fcc.gov/coronavirus.

 

ASL Video COVID-19 Consumer Scams

 

Updated:
Monday, March 7, 2022