Scammers look to capitalize on the news of the moment, especially if the headlines can instill fear and motivate people to act. The ongoing outbreak of the coronavirus is no exception.

While scientists and medical professionals are working overtime to find ways to test for and stem the spread of the virus, the Federal Trade Commission warns that bad actors are working hard to use this as an opportunity to deceive consumers and steal their money or sensitive information.

Just as you can protect yourself from the virus, you can also keep these opportunistic scammers at bay.

How it works:

• Scammers may set up websites to sell bogus coronavirus products — from face masks to vaccines to cure-alls — and use fake emails, texts and social media posts to get you to share payment or sensitive personal information.
• You may come across emails or social posts claiming to promote awareness and prevention tips, including fake information about cases in your neighborhood.
• Scammers may use this as a way to tout an alleged can’t-miss investment opportunity — say in face masks or a cure.
• You may get donation requests claiming to raise money to help victims.
• Stimulus payment scams: Scammers are using phone calls, e-mails, and texts with false information about stimulus payments (economic impact payments) from the federal government. The scammers want your money and will try to obtain personal information such as your Social Security and/or bank account number.

What you should know:

• Know that there is currently no vaccine available for coronavirus.
• Any advertised investment opportunity that claims to ride the wave of economic activity due to the virus is probably an opportunity to lose money to a scam.
• Your best resources for information on the virus are the ones you know and trust — but first verify that the resource is who you think it is.
• The IRS emphasizes that they will not call, text, email, or contact you on social media asking for personal or bank account information — even related to the economic impact payments.

What you should do:

• Don’t click on email links from sources you don’t know. It could download malware on your device.
• Ignore any online offers for vaccinations or treatments. If a vaccine or treatment is developed, you will hear about it in the news, not on an online ad or sales pitch.
• If you receive a communication claiming to be from a government agency like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, close the email and then visit the agency’s website directly at cdc.gov.
• Engage your inner skeptic when confronted with donation requests. Before giving, check out charity watchdogs, like give.org or charitynavigator.org.
• To check on how and when you will receive your economic impact payment, go to irs.gov.coronavirus. Most eligible persons will automatically receive payments but some who are not required to file an IRS tax return will need to fill out a form. Instructions are provided at irs.gov/coronavirus.

When it comes to fraud, vigilance is our No. 1 weapon. You have the power to protect yourself and your loved ones from scams. If you can SPOT a scam, you can STOP a scam. Please share this alert with friends and family.

Jason Erskine is communications director for the AARP Washington State Office.