Since this crisis began in Texas over a month ago, change has been the only constant. Many prosecutions in the federal system have been suspended for the time-being, but investigations still continue. Furthermore, federal agents and the United States Attorney’s Offices are proactively following up on tips for fraud in connection with COVID-19.
Times of heavy economic turmoil and uncertainty can also correlate to people behaving desperately and making bad decisions. In such times, some individuals may not understand the scope and extent of their questionable behavior landing them on the wrong side of the law.
Federal prosecutions for fraudulent activity related to COVID-19 include, but are not limited to, the following acts:
- Individuals and businesses selling fake medication and/or cures for COVID-19 online and engaging in other forms of fraud.
- Individuals that are selling fake testing kits and pose themselves to work for legitimate organizations.
- Phishing email scams from entities posing as the World Health Organization or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- Malicious websites and apps that appear to share virus-related information to gain and lock access to your devices until payment is received.
- Seeking donations fraudulently for illegitimate or non-existent charitable organizations.
- Questionable Medicare claims for equipment on patients that have been misdiagnosed for COVID-19.
- Questionable hospital practices that are utilizing the influx of federal funds to prop up operations.
Lawyer for Federal Criminal Prosecution
The list of criminal behavior the government will investigate continues. If you or someone you know has been contacted by any law enforcement agency regarding fraud in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic, you need to consult a federal criminal lawyer right away. Call Gary Tabakman for a free consultation and next steps (713) 429-1624 today.
Law Office of Gary Tabakman, PLLC