Finally getting vaccinated against COVID-19 might feel like winning the lottery — but those getting a vaccine are being asked to celebrate responsibly.
The Federal Trade Commission reports that some people are so thrilled about getting inoculated, they’re posing with their vaccination cards and posting pictures on social media.
“Please — don’t do that!” the agency warns on its website. “You could be inviting identify theft.”
COVID-19 vaccination cards list your full name, date of birth, where you got the vaccine and when — information that could help a crook guess your Social Security number, open accounts in your name or steal your tax refund.
Also, oversharing on social media can help people figure out security questions and PINs.
The FTC suggests posting a photo of the adhesive bandage on your arm or your vaccine sticker instead, adding: “The stickers are really cool.”
- Sign up for WTOP alerts
- Latest coronavirus test results in DC, Maryland and Virginia
- Coronavirus vaccine FAQ: What you need to know
- Latest vaccination numbers in DC, Maryland and Virginia
- Vaccine hunters: DC region’s residents helping others sign up for COVID-19 appointments
- Doctor: ‘Extremely exciting’ to be vaccinating Prince George’s County schools staff
- Montgomery County to prioritize COVID-19 vaccine doses by ZIP code
Looking for more information? D.C., Maryland and Virginia are each releasing more data every day. Visit their official sites here: Virginia | Maryland | D.C.
