The ACCC’s Scamwatch has warned consumers to be wary of scammers taking advantage of fears surrounding COVID-19.

Reported scams have included fake online stores selling products that claim to be a vaccine or cure for coronavirus, as well as stores selling products such as face masks but then not delivering the purchased goods.

ACCC Deputy Chair Delia Rickard said, “There is no known vaccine or cure for coronavirus and a vaccine isn’t expected to be available for 18 months. Do not buy any products that claim to prevent or cure you of COVID-19. They simply don’t exist.”

In addition, there have been rising incidences of scammers impersonating official organisations, such as the World Health Organization, the Department of Health, or businesses such as telecoms companies and travel agents.

The ACCC warned people to be wary of emails or text claiming to be health experts or businesses and instead has advised that you visit official websites directly.

Since the start of 2020, Scamwatch has received 94 reports about scams related to coronavirus, and has said that this number is likely to climb.