The California Department of Public Health is warning residents of scams connected to its COVID-19 vaccine incentive program.
The “Vax for the Win” program automatically enters vaccinated residents into a lottery for cash prizes. After the first drawing June 4, residents began receiving calls, emails, texts or direct messages from scammers pretending to be state officials, according to a department news release.
Scammers may claim that there is a registration process to enter the program, according to the release. They also may claim that winners’ bank information is needed or residents must pay a fee to verify whether they are eligible for the prizes.
If residents think they’re being targeted by scammers, they are asked to email rumors@cdph.ca.gov or call the incentives hotline at 1-833-993-3873.
Residents who do win a drawing will be notified by the department via phone call, text, email or an in-person visit…
