Bedford PD Warn Against 'Companion' Vaccine Scams

BEDFORD, MA — Bedford police and officials are warning seniors in the community to be vigilant of a scam where strangers offer to serve as a “companion” in order to obtain the vaccinations alongside eligible seniors.

Under new state rules, companions of people age 75 and over are now permitted to accompany those seniors to appointments at state-run COVID-19 vaccination sites, and be vaccinated as well. Officials have heard of instances in which otherwise ineligible individuals are offering rides, help with making appointments, monetary compensation, etc. to seniors in order to get vaccinated.

Senior residents should not exchange money, credit card or other personal information to strangers in return for transportation or companionship.

“As a rule of thumb, we ask that any senior resident looking for transportation or a companion to reach out to family members first, then the Council on Aging,” Director Cservenschi said. “We discourage residents from accepting any companion or transportation offers from people they do not know as this may put them in a vulnerable position.”

Senior residents in need of transportation to vaccination appointments and other support regarding the vaccine are encouraged to call the Bedford Council on Aging at 781-275-6825. The Council on Aging will be available to provide limited rides within town and to neighboring towns.

Residents in need of additional support related to obtaining the vaccine, such as making an appointment or learning more about where they can be vaccinated, are urged to call either the visit the COVID-19 Vaccination page on the Health Department website at www.bedfordma.gov/health or call the Health Department at 781-275-6507.

“There are numerous state and local resources available to senior residents who may need assistance in regards to the COVID-19 vaccine,” Director Porter said. “At this time, we urge residents to use the state’s 211 hotline if they need assistance with appointment registration and to reach out to either the Bedford Board of Health or Council on Aging if they have any further questions or concerns.”