Money Matters: Better Business Bureau warns of COVID-19 testing scams
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) - Anyone who shows COVID-19 symptoms can now get tested in Colorado free of charge.
But just as testing has increased, scammers have also increased when it comes to selling coronavirus tests, specifically antibody tests.
Some studies show that up to 50% of people with COVID-19 do not show symptoms. This is where antibody tests come into play. Antibody tests can detect if your body has already fought the virus.
Unfortunately, scammers are creating phony antibody tests and cashing in.
According to the Better Business Bureau, scammers have created websites that look like a clinic or medical supply company offering COVID-19 antibody tests.
The tests claim to identify if you've already been infected with COVID-19 even if you're already recovered.
Some scammers offer at-home testing kits and others offer the test through a clinic after you've entered all of your personal information and credit card number.
Most fraudulent sites will be short on details and will not provide any information on how the tests work.
The Colorado Department of Public Health discourages the use of antibody tests that have not been approved by the FDA or at the state level.
If you want an antibody test you should reach out to your healthcare provider. They can help you figure out if the test will be covered by insurance and where to find a legitimate clinic.
Also, look at all of your testing options. The Colorado Department of Public Health explains the different types of tests available here.
