The California Department of Public Health is warning residents to be on guard for potential scams related to the state’s new COVID-19 vaccination incentive programs.
The first “Vax for the Win” drawing was held on June 4. The program, which will ultimately award $116.5 million to previously immunized individuals and individuals who agree to be immunized, is designed to motivate residents to get vaccinated before the state’s reopening on June 15.
Following the drawing, residents notified the state of scammers impersonating state officials through calls, emails, texts and direct messages on social media, the CDPH said in a news release Monday.
The state is urging anyone who encounters a potential scam to call 833-993-3873 or email rumors@cdph.ca.gov.
In the news release, the CDPH said winners will be notified by CDPH officials through an official “State of CA CDPH” caller and text ID, a CDPH email address or in person by a CDPH employee. In addition, winners will not be asked to provide any bank information or pay any fees associated with verifying eligibility for a cash prize.
All vaccinated individuals are automatically entered into the program, the CDPH said.
More information about the program is available at covid19.ca.gov/vax-for-the-win.