SC feds launch crackdown on coronavirus-related fraud
The U.S. attorney’s office for South Carolina announced on Wednesday that it would be part of a nationwide federal crackdown on fraud schemes, such as hoarding for profit and scammers.
“Even in these times of uncertainty, the rule of law will prevail,” said Lance Crick, acting U.S. attorney for South Carolina. “Obviously, the coronavirus pandemic is going to be disruptive, and we are adapting to it and are on high alert.”
Crick’s office has some 50 prosecutors around the state who work with federal law enforcement agencies such as the FBI, IRS, DEA and a dozen other agencies to help prosecute defendants for a wide variety of federal crimes.
In Washington, Attorney General William Barr has directed federal prosecutors around the county to prioritize the investigation and prosecution of fraud schemes related to the coronavirus outbreak. Barr made his announcement last week at one of President Donald Trump’s press conferences.
Anyone wishing to report a real or suspected fraud scheme can call the toll-free number of the National Center for Disaster Fraud or email the agency at disaster@leo.gov. They will forward complaints to the relevant state prosecutor.
Crimes the feds will concentrate on include:
- Phishing emails from anyone posting as the World Health Organization or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- Malicious websites and apps that appear to share Coronavirus-related information to gain and lock access to your devices unless you pay a ransom.
- Medical providers obtaining patient information for COVID-19 testing and then using that information to fraudulently bill for other tests and procedures.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Derek Shoemake, who is based at the Florence federal prosecutor’s office, is the South Carolina coronavirus fraud coordinator.
Federal authorities plan to stay in communication with state law agencies to ensure some state and federal cases don’t overlap.
To learn more about Department of Justice resources, visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
This story was originally published March 25, 2020 at 4:43 PM.