ALBANY — New York residents are being warned about scammers taking advantage of the free COVID-19 test government program to steal personal information for unscrupulous purposes.
Due to the high demand, scammers may start using techniques such as: falsely claiming to be online providers of the tests; sending fake emails and texts that contain harmful links designed to steal your personal information; and using robocalls to pitch testing information.
Residents should also be aware that the only website for the free at-home test kits is https://www.covidtests.gov/. This link will direct you to a United States Postal Service page to complete the free at-home test kit request form.
The form only asks for a person’s name and address. They are not required to enter a social security number, credit card number, health insurance number or any other personally identifiable information.
The service is also free.
“The availability of free COVID-19 test kits from the federal government will help millions of Americans to have multiple tests on-hand as we continue to monitor and navigate the winter surge,” said New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett in a news release. “I urge New Yorkers to be vigilant in safeguarding their identity while they are protecting their health and always verify that a source is legitimate before providing…
