FBI warns of scammers using coronavirus outbreak to steal personal information, money

OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) -- The FBI is warning people about scammers using the coronavirus to steal your money, your personal information, or both.

The FBI warns people not to click links in their emails claiming to be from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or other organizations that claim to offer information about the coronavirus.

Scammers can use the links in your email to deliver malware that can steal your personal information, or they can lock your computer and demand money to unlock it.

Criminals are also using websites claiming to have information about the virus to lock computers and demand payments.

As stimulus checks are coming out, the FBI is warning people not to open emails that ask for your personal information to receive the checks.

The government will not ask for any personal information for you to get your money.

The FBI says you need to also be aware of people trying to sell products that they claim will prevent, treat, diagnose, or cure the coronavirus.

Be alert to counterfeit products such as sanitizing products and personal protective equipment, including N95 masks, goggles, face shields, protective gowns, and gloves.

More information on unapproved personal protective equipment can be found here.

To report counterfeit products, click here.