By Sharon Bloudek, May 27, 2020
Over the past couple of months, we’ve all heard many stories neighbors helping neighbors—people rising to help those in need during these extraordinary times.
Unfortunately, there are also reports of the opposite: scammers who seek to use the Covid-19 crisis to their advantage. Please be aware of the following and take care to protect yourself and your personal/financial information:
- Ignore offers for test kits and vaccines. FDA-approved test kits are only available through a licensed medical professional. Right now, there is no vaccine for Covid-19. Avoid purchasing test kits, “cures,” medications, air filters, etc. online, and instead consult your doctor regarding any concerns you may have related to Covid-19.
- Screen your phone calls. This one is simple: if you don’t recognize the number of an incoming call, don’t answer the phone. Scammers are using illegal robocalls to pitch products and solicit personal information. When in doubt, let the call go through to voicemail! If you do answer a phone call, NEVER give your personal information—your social security number, credit card information, bank account numbers, Medicare ID number, or driver license number—to anyone over the phone.
- Beware of emails and texts. Take the same precautions with emails and texts as you do with phone calls. Be wary of emails claiming to be the CDC, WHO, or any other official entity. Don’t click on links from suspicious sources. Be particularly aware of scams targeting people receiving social security benefits. Again, NEVER share your personal information.
- Take care with charitable donations. There are a lot of reputable organizations working hard to help people during these uncertain times. Unfortunately, there are also a lot of coronavirus-related charity scams. Never donate by wiring money from your bank account, with a gift card, or with cash. Instead, research the organization, make sure it is reputable, and make your donation via the charity’s secure online portal.
If you’re in doubt, the Federal Trade Commission and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau offer information about how to protect yourself from scams (and even what to do if you have been the victim of a scam). And please don’t hesitate to contact me if I can be of help.
Be well,
Sharon
Sharon Bloudek
Principal Broker | OR
She/Her
Sharon is a Licensed Principal Broker in Oregon with 17 years of experience in the real estate industry. With a Business Degree in Marketing/Management from Loyola Marymount University, an MBA from the University of Oregon, and international business studies at the Copenhagen Business School in Denmark, Sharon brings a strategic and diverse perspective to her role.
Leading the #1 team at Living Room Realty alongside Beth Benner, Sharon has earned recognition in the top 1% of the RMLS and is a long-time member of PMAR's Masters Circle Diamond Platinum Level.
Sharon’s integrity, expertise, and commitment to excellence are what make her standout. She has served more than 450 homeowners over the years, leveraging her strong industry relationships and dedication to her clients to deliver exceptional results. Sharon is also an active participant in the local real estate investment scene, using her comprehensive market knowledge to inform her investment decisions.
Originally from Southern California, Sharon has called Portland home for 20 years. Beyond her real estate career, she has served as a Board Member of the Jesuit Volunteer Corps Northwest, has a passion for pickleball, basketball, and softball, and enjoys a fulfilling family life with her three children.
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- T: 503-701-1000
- sharon@bridgetoportland.com
