Purdue prof: Protect yourself against COVID-19 and its related scams

Marian Liu, an assistant professor at Purdue University’s School of Nursing who studies exploitation of older adults. Download image

WHAT: Scams related to COVID-19 are on the rise and are also taking numerous formats, especially as more Americans have “stay in place” orders. Scams are ranging from traditional online scams, phishing, false COVID-19 tests to calls or emails asking for help in paying for funeral expenses. 

EXPERT: Marian Liu, an assistant professor of nursing at Purdue University, specializing in studying exploitation of older and vulnerable adults, can talk about ways to protect yourself from scams, especially as a large number of Americans are participating in online activities from home.

As Americans observe “stay in place” orders in various states during the COVID-19 pandemic, they need to be alert for COVID-19-related scams. Download image

QUOTE: “Scammers exploit our fear of the COVID-19 pandemic by advertising nonexistent products such as vaccines or treatments, gouging scarce resources and sending fake information including donation requests,” says Liu. “Misinformation and rumors are often shared without verification, sometimes by well-meaning people. Everyone should take the time to fact check before passing or acting on any information.” 

MORE INFORMATION:

• Liu is a recent recipient of the Rosalie S. Wolf Memorial Award from the National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA) for her contribution to the knowledge and development in the fields of abuse of elders or persons with disabilities or adult protective services.

About Purdue University

Purdue University is a top public research institution developing practical solutions to today’s toughest challenges. Ranked the No. 6 Most Innovative University in the United States by U.S. News & World Report, Purdue delivers world-changing research and out-of-this-world discovery. Committed to hands-on and online, real-world learning, Purdue offers a transformative education to all. Committed to affordability and accessibility, Purdue has frozen tuition and most fees at 2012-13 levels, enabling more students than ever to graduate debt-free. See how Purdue never stops in the persistent pursuit of the next giant leap at purdue.edu. 

Writer: Matthew Oates, 765-586-7496 (cell), oatesw@purdue.edu, @mo_oates

Source: Pi-Ju (Marian) Liu, 765-496-0615, marianliu@purdue.edu. Liu is also available for Skype interviews.

Note to Journalists: A photo of Marian Liu, as well as a stock photo, are available on Google Drive. She is available for Skype and phone interviews.