Officials in Georgia are warning residents of scams surrounding COVID-19 tests, saying the increase in demand could lead to people being duped into paying for fake tests or overpaying.
Attorney General Chris Carr and Georgia Department of Public Health Commissioner Kathleen E. Toomey issued the warning, according to a recent release by the Georgia Consumer Protection Division. Carr said he asked residents to be on the watch for any suspicious coronavirus tests.
“We urge all Georgians to be on the lookout for fraudulent COVID-19-related practices, specifically as it pertains to testing,” Carr said. “Unfortunately, scam artists seeking to take advantage of the increase in demand will attempt to con hardworking Georgians into paying for fake tests. Do your research to ensure you are visiting a legitimate operation and receiving results from a valid provider.”
Be wary of anyone going door-to-door selling tests, as well as those approaching on the street or driving around to offer testing, the statement said. It also warned that if someone is trying to charge for an in-person test it could be a scam. If there is any question about a testing site, the Consumer Protection Division instructs people to call their local police department or sheriff.
“Testing is a critical component for identifying outbreaks of COVID and to inform mitigation strategies,” Toomey said. “Misinformation from unapproved COVID tests could result in people not following isolation and quarantine protocols and lead to further transmission of the virus and serious or life-threatening illness.”
There also have been reports of people being overcharged for COVID-19 tests, and the Consumer Protection Division and the Attorney General’s Office have been monitoring potential situations of price gouging and scamming.
Those looking to be tested for COVID-19 should do so at a valid testing site. These can be found on the Department of Public Health's website under the area of “Find a Testing Location.”
