Sacramento, California - Monday, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced a series of steps aimed at protecting consumer financial safety amidst the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) outbreak.

U.S. Attorney Scott has appointed a COVID-19 fraud coordinator to lead investigations into known and suspected occurrences of consumer financial fraud resulting from the nation’s ongoing public health emergency.

U.S. Attorney Scott stated, “The investigation and prosecution of crime remains the mission of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. We will continue to vigilantly guard the public from wrongdoers, including those who might try to take advantage of the COVID-19 crisis. Those who violate federal law will be held accountable.”

If you think you are a victim of a scam or attempted fraud involving COVID-19, you can report it without leaving your home though a number of platforms. Go to:

• Contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• Report it to the FBI at tips.fbi.gov
• If it’s a cyber-scam, submit your complaint through https://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx 

The U.S. Attorney’s Office COVID-19 fraud coordinator will be notified of tips submitted via any of the above reporting methods.

Taking into account the general orders filed by Chief U.S. District Judge Kimberly Mueller related to COVID-19, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has taken necessary precautions to protect the health and safety of its staff during this health emergency while continuing to fulfill its public safety mission. Essential law enforcement functions including investigations, the signing and execution of warrants, filing of charges, and case litigation will continue. Eastern District of California prosecutors and support staff will continue working with federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement partners to safeguard our justice system and protect the safety and security of our nation during this difficult time.