Consumers Lost Over $500 Million Due to Covid-related Fraud

It will be many years before we have a full understanding of what COVID-19 cost us as a society. But as that information is incrementally collected and released, we’re starting to see the picture take shape. One of the most recent reports on the subject was issued by the Federal Trade Commission, which has estimated that consumers victimized by Covid-related fraud lost over $500 million.

The numbers are devastating, especially because there is a strong sense that the self-reported losses pale in comparison to those that went unreported. The FTC acknowledges that the more-than 558,000 complaints it has received since the start of 2020 barely scratch the surface of how many consumers have been ripped off by online shopping scams, fraudulent travel websites and other schemes. Far more consumers have likely shrugged off the losses rather than go to the trouble of registering a complaint. But based on the complaints that were lodged (60% of which were specifically associated with fraud), the average theft per person amounted to about $370.

It is heartbreaking to realize that fraud continues and thrives in the midst of a global pandemic, and yet this frequently happens in the midst of a tragedy. As citizens have struggled to avoid sickness and deal with isolation and job loss, unethical opportunists have set up fake online shopping and sites and found ways to rob individuals of their government stimulus checks. Even more have tried to take advantage of consumer demand: according to a Consumer Federation report, price-gouging of toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and face masks —items that were in short supply and desperately needed — was the most frequently-lodged complaint to state and local consumer agencies. Others reported issues with lack of refunds related to event cancellations, school and childcare closures. Illegal evictions were also common.

Of the 53,000 scams reported to the FTC, the lion’s share was about online shopping fraud, with approximately 16% indicating that as they spent more time indoors and online, they were tricked by “opportunistic websites” that advertised the availability of in-demand items, then never delivered. Consumers filed complaints about sites selling clothing, electronics, hand sanitizer, and pets, but the biggest losses were to sites that refused to issue refunds canceled vacations and travel. Ironically, the Better Business Bureau is reporting that now that travel has resumed, new scams have arisen offering fake airline tickets and other travel accommodations.




Share this article...

Want tax & accounting tips and insights?

Sign up for our newsletter.

I confirm this is a service inquiry and not an advertising message or solicitation. By clicking “Submit”, I acknowledge and agree to the creation of an account and to the and .
I consent to receive SMS messages and agree with the

A Passion For the Alcohol Industry

Breweries & Distilleries

Breweries & Distilleries Are Our Specialty

At Oak City Payments, we have a deep understanding of the unique financial challenges and opportunities faced by breweries and distilleries. With nearly 15 years of experience in the alcohol industry, our team is passionate about this specialized sector. We're here to make sure your business thrives, whether you're crafting small batch bourbon in Asheville or craft beer in Wilmington. We know North Carolina -- and we know alcohol.

Expertise in Brewery and Distillery Operations

Our founder, Allen Jackson, has a background in the alcohol industry. HIs passion drives our commitment to supporting breweries and distilleries at every stage of their journey. Whether you're a startup craft brewery or an established distillery, we have the knowledge and resources to address your payroll, payments, and accounting needs.

Comprehensive Solutions for Alcohol Businesses

From payroll services specifically tailored to the unique needs of breweries and distilleries to wholesale solutions designed to optimize inventory management, Oak City Payments offers a suite of services to support your business. Our goal is to alleviate administrative burdens by providing the tools and support you need to focus on what you do best—crafting exceptional brews and spirits.

Trusted Partner in the Alcohol Industry

Oak City Payments is proud to be a trusted partner for breweries and distilleries across the Tar Heel State.. With our deep industry knowledge and personalized service, we are dedicated to helping alcohol businesses succeed and thrive in an increasingly competitive market. Cheers to a long-term partnership!

Let Oak City Payments relieve your stress today.
Fuquay-Varina-based Tax & Accounting Experts can help you with all areas of accounting, credit card processing, and payroll.