With COVID-19 vaccinations underway across the state, it's important to avoid the many kinds of traps that scammers may set.

A professor at University at Buffalo says any time you are asked for money, credit card information, or your social security number, that is a scam.

COVID-19 vaccines are being administered free of charge. He says scams can also come in the form of ads on social media or online.

Those should not be trusted unless they come from your local or state health department.

He believes elderly people may be the biggest targets.

“The supply of vaccine is low and the demand is high so there will be scams going around,” said SUNY Distinguished Professor Dr. Timothy Murphy. “Now in New York state everyone over the age of 65 is eligible. That is a huge segment of our population and many scams that are prevalent target elderly people.”

Dr. Murphy says you should hang up on any scam calls or delete emails with strange links and report any scams you may receive.

If you are interested in getting a vaccine you should contact your state or local health department or a local pharmacy.