Watch out for vaccine scams

Research is being done on a COVID-19 vaccine, and participants have been sought for trials.

Criminals have taken advantage of the situation by faking studies, thus preying on unsuspecting victims.

Anyone thinking of joining a study should research it first. Clinical trials are major news so it should be easy to find information about legitimate ones. Check all ads against news stories, or do online searches using keywords like “news,” “scam” or “review.” Don’t click on links in emails, messages or pop-up ads.

Those who are interested in volunteering for a research study can visit ClinicalTrials.Gov, which has a database of clinical studies, if they are recruiting participants, and official contact information.

Studies do require some personal information, such as your name, contact information, address, age, gender, race, ethnicity and medical history. Legitimate clinical trials should not ask for Social Security numbers or financial account numbers.

Never pay to participate in a study. Many real studies may offer compensation, but actual ones won’t ask for payment or credit card information. If you’re still concerned, request a check instead of direct deposit.

Those who’ve fallen victim to a scam should file a complaint with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. This can be done by visiting datcp.wi.gov, calling 800-422-7128 or emailing DATCPHotline@wisconsin.gov.

The DATCP is working with the Federal Trade Commission and Wisconsin Department of Health Services to advise the public of COVID-19 scams.