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Stanly County Senior Services Director Becky Weemhoff released information this week to alert seniors about scams regarding COVID-19 and the vaccine.

“It is unfortunate that scammers are always looking for ways to target people and older adults seem to be at a greater risk of this. As the number of people and communities affected by the COVID-19 pandemic grows, so do the scams associated with it,” she wrote in an email. “It’s important to remember that although the public health officials and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) may contact you if they believe you may have been exposed to the virus, they will not need to ask you for insurance or financial information.”

She shared info to know about the COVID-19 vaccine:

• You likely will not need to pay anything out-of-pocket to get the vaccine during this public health emergency.

• You cannot pay to put your name on a list to get the vaccine.

• You cannot pay to get early access to the vaccine.

• You will not be solicited door to door to receive the vaccine.

• No one from Medicare or the Health Department with contact you (unless you have contacted them first).

• No one from a vaccine distribution site or health care payer, like a private insurance company, will call you asking for your Medicare number, Social Security number or your credit card or bank account information to sign you up to get the vaccine.

“We want you to be vigilant and protect yourself from potential fraud,” she said. “Take care and stay safe.”