Have you been the victim of a COVID-19 scam?

Though warnings of COVID-19 scams have been circulating online, Hamilton police say they haven't received any reports. 

From text messages of tax reimbursement due to COVID-19 to phone calls of employment insurance, Hamilton locals are taking to social media to share their recent interactions with fraudsters. Despite this, it doesn't seem like anyone is reporting these messages to police, said Sgt. Rob Hardy of the Major Fraud Unit who noted that his department hasn't received any notice of COVID-19 scams. 

But Hardy said it's not hard to believe that people are receiving these kinds of spam messages. 

"Just be aware, unfortunately in these times people will seek to take advantage of the stress and the worry," Hardy said. 

"It comes back to stop, look and listen...stop for a moment and look at the whole situation, I would add do your research as well." 

Hardy said people need to be reminded that the government is not individually contacting people and that they will not make unsolicited calls — you always have to call them.

For people dealing with employment insurance or other matters related to COVID-19, Hardy said they should contact Service Canada directly and set up an account that will ensure valid communication. 

If you've been the victim of a COVID-19 scam, contact us at hamilton@cbc.ca