City staff and leadership teams continue to thank our strong community members who are actively doing their part to flatten the curve of COVID-19.
Here are some tips and informational pieces to keep in mind during this time:
While the City continues to put out timely information as it becomes available, residents looking for additional information or with questions are encouraged to contact the County of Orange Public Information Hotline at (714) 628-7085.
City staff and leadership are asking that residents be alert and vigilant against Cyber Scams. Cyber actors are using the current COVID-19 incident as an opportunity to trick possible victims into revealing sensitive information and even donating to charities that are fraudulent.
Additionally, be mindful of social engineering attacks, which occur when an attacker uses human interaction (social skills) to obtain information about a person or organization. Some precautions that you can take today include:
- Avoid clicking on links that come from unsolicited emails
- Use authentic and trusted sources for up-to-date information on COVID-19, inclusive of government websites, ex: gov
- Avoid giving out personal and financial information in an email
- Review the Federal Trade Commission’s page and verify a charity’s name before making any donations.
- For more information on how to avoid social engineering and phishing attacks, visit: https://www.us-cert.gov/ncas/tips/ST04-014
There has been a lot of questions pertaining to the order from the California State Public Health Officer and Director of the California Department of Public Heath, that was issued on March 19. Although the order does call for California residents to stay home or at their place of residence, please note that during this time, residents are still allowed to partake in essential activities, while practicing social distancing.
Essential activities include:
- Groceries
- Gas
- Banking
- Pharmacies
- Take-out and delivery restaurants
- Laundry services
- Walking your pets
- Spending time with your kids/pets outside/going for a walk/physical exercise outdoors
Please note that residents with pets are still allowed to walk their pets and maintain that level of essential activity for their animals.
Your public safety departments, inclusive of Fire and PD have been and continue to be well-prepared for all incidents and emergencies. Anyone with questions may call the city Hotline at (714) 754-5156 or visit the city website at: www.costamesaca.gov/covid-19.