As Chairman of the Assembly’s Public Safety Committee, I want to alert you to scams being conducted using the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak to take advantage of constituents.
If you or someone you know have been a victim of any of these scams, or if you need to report suspicious activities, please use the information below to contact the appropriate agency.
At times like these we all need to band together and look out for one another.
Please remain at home as much as possible to avoid contracting or spreading the virus. Remain calm. Stay informed. Wash your hands regularly.
Wishing you health and safety,
Assemblymember Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer, Sr.
59th Assembly District
Price Gouging: It is unlawful for a person, contractor, business, or other entity to sell or offer any food items or goods, goods or services used for emergency clean-up, emergency supplies, medical supplies, home heating oil, building materials, housing, transportation, freight, storage services, or gasoline at a price that is more than 10% higher than the price charged by that person for those goods or services immediately prior to the proclamation or declaration of emergency.
Phishing Emails: Phishing refers to emails, links, or attachments that you don't recognize or posing as real people or businesses to steal your information. Hackers may be able to access your personal information if you click, open, or log in to a fake page. You may receive emails from fraudulent accounts impersonating official websites or government agencies. EXAMPLE: Fake email @CDC-GOV.ORG (uses under score and an ,org) vs. official email @CDC.GOV. Make sure you hover over the link to verify the URL & domain name.
Fraudulent Online Offers: Ignore fraudulent online offers claiming they are selling COVID-19 products, cures or treatments. Per the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention, there is no vaccine for COVID-19 (coronavirus). There are also scammers claiming they are selling the “N95” respirator face masks, surgical masks, and/or hand sanitizer. Please purchase from businesses you trust.
Fraudulent Fundraising Campaigns/Donation Requests: Be aware of fraudulent fundraising campaigns or donation requests for cash, gift cards, and credit cards. There are scammers seeking contributions via emails or going door to door. Donate only to known and reputable nonprofits.
All COVID-19 CONSUMER ISSUES are to be reported using the following link (Price-gouging of products or services, alleged scams, false advertising or other consumer issues): https://www.lacityattorney.org/covid19
You can also call the Los Angeles City Attorney’s office or the California Attorney General’s office with questions or to file a complaint.
- LA City Attorney: (213) 978-8100
- CA Attorney General: 1-(800) 952-5225