PONTIAC, Mich. (AP) — The parents of a teen accused of killing four students in a shooting at a&nbsp;Michigan&nbsp;high school were caught early Saturday, several hours after a prosecutor filed involuntary manslaughter charges against them, officials said.

James and Jennifer Crumbley were captured in a commercial building in Detroit that housed artwork, Detroit Police Chief James E. White told a news conference. White said the couple “were aided in getting into the building,” and that a person who helped them may also face charges.

A Detroit business owner spotted a car tied to the Crumbleys in his parking lot late Friday, Oakland County Undersheriff Michael McCabe said in a statement. A woman seen near the vehicle ran away when the business owner called 911, McCabe said. The couple was later located and arrested by Detroit police.

A prosecutor filed involuntary manslaughter charges against the Crumbleys on Friday, accusing them of failing to intervene on the day of the tragedy despite being confronted with a drawing and chilling message — “blood everywhere” — that was found at the boy’s desk.

The Crumbleys committed “egregious” acts, from buying a gun on Black Friday and making it available to Ethan Crumbley to resisting his removal from school when they were summoned a few hours before the shooting, Oakland County prosecutor Karen McDonald said.

Authorities had been looking for the couple since Friday afternoon. Late Friday, U.S. Marshals announced a reward of up to $10,000 each for information leading to their arrests.

The Crumbley's attorney, Shannon Smith, said the pair had left town earlier in the week “for their own safety.” Smith told The Associated Press they would be returning to Oxford to be arraigned.

However, White said the Crumbleys “appeared to be hiding” in the building where they were found. He added that the parents appeared to be “distressed” when they were captured.

“Head down... just very upset,” he said of one of the parents. The couple was booked into the Oakland County Jail.

Earlier, the prosecutor offered the most precise account so far of the events that led to the shooting at Oxford High School, roughly 30 miles&nbsp; north of Detroit.

Ethan Crumbley, 15, emerged from a bathroom with a gun, shooting students in the hallway, investigators said. He’s charged as an adult with murder, terrorism and other crimes.

Under Michigan law, the involuntary manslaughter charge filed against the parents can be pursued if authorities believe someone contributed to a situation where there was a high chance of harm or death.

Parents in the U.S. are rarely charged in school shootings involving their children, even as most minors get guns from a parent or relative’s house, according to experts.

School officials became concerned about the younger Crumbley on Monday, a day before the shooting, when a teacher saw him searching for ammunition on his phone, McDonald said.

Jennifer Crumbley was contacted and subsequently told her son in a text message: “Lol. I’m not mad at you. You have to learn not to get caught,” according to the prosecutor.

On Tuesday, a teacher found a note on Ethan’s desk and took a photo. It was a drawing of a gun pointing at the words, “The thoughts won’t stop. Help me,” McDonald said.

There also was a drawing of a bullet, she said, with words above it: “Blood everywhere.”

Between the gun and the bullet was a person who appeared to have been shot twice and is bleeding. He also wrote, “My life is useless” and “The world is dead,” according to the prosecutor.

The school quickly had a meeting with Ethan and his parents, who were told to get him into counseling within 48 hours, McDonald said.

The Crumbleys failed to ask their son about the gun or check his backpack and “resisted the idea of their son leaving the school at that time,” McDonald said.

Instead, the teen returned to class and the shooting subsequently occurred.

“The notion that a parent could read those words and also know that their son had access to a deadly weapon that they gave him is unconscionable — it’s criminal,” the prosecutor said.

Jennifer Crumbley texted her son after the shooting, saying, “Ethan, don’t do it,” McDonald said.

James Crumbley called 911 to say that a gun was missing from their home and that Ethan might be the shooter. The gun had been kept in an unlocked drawer in the parents’ bedroom, McDonald said.

Ethan accompanied his father for the gun purchase on Nov. 26 and posted photos of the firearm on social media, saying, “Just got my new beauty today,” McDonald said.

Over the long Thanksgiving weekend, Jennifer Crumbley wrote on social media that it is a “mom and son day testing out his new Christmas present,” the prosecutor said.

Asked at a news conference if the father could be charged for purchasing the gun for the son, McDonald said that would be the decision of federal authorities.

In a video message to the community Thursday, the head of Oxford Community Schools said the high school looks like a “war zone” and won’t be ready for weeks. Superintendent Tim Throne repeatedly complimented students and staff for how they responded to the violence.

He also acknowledged the meeting of Crumbley, the parents and school officials. Throne offered no details but summed it up by saying, “No discipline was warranted.”

McDonald was asked about the decision to keep Crumbley in school.

“Of course, he shouldn’t have gone back to that classroom. ... I believe that is a universal position. I’m not going to chastise or attack, but yeah,” she said.

Asked if school officials may potentially be charged, McDonald said: “The investigation’s ongoing.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638621716369.png" alt="James Crumbley-photo Oakland Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>James Crumbley-photo Oakland Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>PONTIAC, Mich. (AP) — The parents of a teen accused of killing four students in a shooting at a&nbsp;Michigan&nbsp;high school were caught early Saturday, several hours after a prosecutor filed involuntary manslaughter charges against them, officials said.James and Jennifer Crumbley were captured in a commercial building in Detroit that housed artwork, Detroit Police Chief James E. White told a news conference. White said the couple “were aided in getting into the building,” and that a person who helped them may also face charges.A Detroit business owner spotted a car tied to the Crumbleys in his parking lot late Friday, Oakland County Undersheriff Michael McCabe said in a statement. A woman seen near the vehicle ran away when the business owner called 911, McCabe said. The couple was later located and arrested by Detroit police.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638621694054.png" alt="Jennifer Crumbley-photo Oakland Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>Jennifer Crumbley-photo Oakland Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>A prosecutor filed involuntary manslaughter charges against the Crumbleys on Friday, accusing them of failing to intervene on the day of the tragedy despite being confronted with a drawing and chilling message — “blood everywhere” — that was found at the boy’s desk.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638552839270.png" alt="Oakland County prosecutor Karen McDonald during Friday's news conference" />
 <figcaption>Oakland County prosecutor Karen McDonald during Friday's news conference</figcaption>
 </figure>The Crumbleys committed “egregious” acts, from buying a gun on Black Friday and making it available to Ethan Crumbley to resisting his removal from school when they were summoned a few hours before the shooting, Oakland County prosecutor Karen McDonald said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638622850263.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Authorities had been looking for the couple since Friday afternoon. Late Friday, U.S. Marshals announced a reward of up to $10,000 each for information leading to their arrests.The Crumbley's attorney, Shannon Smith, said the pair had left town earlier in the week “for their own safety.” Smith told The Associated Press they would be returning to Oxford to be arraigned.However, White said the Crumbleys “appeared to be hiding” in the building where they were found. He added that the parents appeared to be “distressed” when they were captured.“Head down... just very upset,” he said of one of the parents. The couple was booked into the Oakland County Jail.Earlier, the prosecutor offered the most precise account so far of the events that led to the shooting at Oxford High School, roughly 30 miles&nbsp; north of Detroit.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638551635768.png" alt="Ethan Crumbley-photo Oakland Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Ethan Crumbley-photo Oakland Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>Ethan Crumbley, 15, emerged from a bathroom with a gun, shooting students in the hallway, investigators said. He’s charged as an adult with murder, terrorism and other crimes.Under Michigan law, the involuntary manslaughter charge filed against the parents can be pursued if authorities believe someone contributed to a situation where there was a high chance of harm or death.Parents in the U.S. are rarely charged in school shootings involving their children, even as most minors get guns from a parent or relative’s house, according to experts.School officials became concerned about the younger Crumbley on Monday, a day before the shooting, when a teacher saw him searching for ammunition on his phone, McDonald said.Jennifer Crumbley was contacted and subsequently told her son in a text message: “Lol. I’m not mad at you. You have to learn not to get caught,” according to the prosecutor.On Tuesday, a teacher found a note on Ethan’s desk and took a photo. It was a drawing of a gun pointing at the words, “The thoughts won’t stop. Help me,” McDonald said.There also was a drawing of a bullet, she said, with words above it: “Blood everywhere.”Between the gun and the bullet was a person who appeared to have been shot twice and is bleeding. He also wrote, “My life is useless” and “The world is dead,” according to the prosecutor.The school quickly had a meeting with Ethan and his parents, who were told to get him into counseling within 48 hours, McDonald said.The Crumbleys failed to ask their son about the gun or check his backpack and “resisted the idea of their son leaving the school at that time,” McDonald said.Instead, the teen returned to class and the shooting subsequently occurred.“The notion that a parent could read those words and also know that their son had access to a deadly weapon that they gave him is unconscionable — it’s criminal,” the prosecutor said.Jennifer Crumbley texted her son after the shooting, saying, “Ethan, don’t do it,” McDonald said.James Crumbley called 911 to say that a gun was missing from their home and that Ethan might be the shooter. The gun had been kept in an unlocked drawer in the parents’ bedroom, McDonald said.Ethan accompanied his father for the gun purchase on Nov. 26 and posted photos of the firearm on social media, saying, “Just got my new beauty today,” McDonald said.Over the long Thanksgiving weekend, Jennifer Crumbley wrote on social media that it is a “mom and son day testing out his new Christmas present,” the prosecutor said.Asked at a news conference if the father could be charged for purchasing the gun for the son, McDonald said that would be the decision of federal authorities.In a video message to the community Thursday, the head of Oxford Community Schools said the high school looks like a “war zone” and won’t be ready for weeks. Superintendent Tim Throne repeatedly complimented students and staff for how they responded to the violence.He also acknowledged the meeting of Crumbley, the parents and school officials. Throne offered no details but summed it up by saying, “No discipline was warranted.”McDonald was asked about the decision to keep Crumbley in school.“Of course, he shouldn’t have gone back to that classroom. ... I believe that is a universal position. I’m not going to chastise or attack, but yeah,” she said.Asked if school officials may potentially be charged, McDonald said: “The investigation’s ongoing.”

Fugitive parents of alleged Michigan school shooter captured 

By LAURA OLSON <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/12/02/at-home-covid-tests-to-be-covered-by-insurance-but-details-still-to-come/">States Newsroom</a>

WASHINGTON — State health officials 
on Thursday welcomed the Biden administration’s plan to require private 
health insurers to reimburse Americans for the cost of rapid, at-home 
COVID-19 tests — though the officials also raised questions about 
whether the process will be burdensome.

Making those tests more accessible 
will allow Americans to get results quickly and in the privacy of their 
own homes. That change may encourage more people to swab their nose when
 they first notice potential symptoms, experts from the Association of 
State and Territorial Health Officials told reporters.

“In this next phase of the pandemic, 
rapid access to rapid testing will be key,” said Nirav Shah, director of
 Maine’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adding that it can 
help to combat potential surges and to pinpoint infections quickly so 
antiviral treatments can be used.

But several challenges could limit the impact of the cost reduction.

That includes lingering problems with
 sufficient supplies, uncertainty about the details of the reimbursement
 process, and questions about any potential effect on the data that’s 
reaching state and local health departments about infections in their 
communities.

Under the proposal that President Joe
 Biden announced Thursday, three federal departments — Health and Human 
Services, Labor and the Treasury — will issue official guidance by Jan. 
15 that will detail what exactly private insurers must cover when it 
comes to rapid COVID-19 tests.

Those insurers already are required 
to pay for the PCR tests that must be sent to a laboratory for 
processing and take longer for results.

The upcoming change requiring 
insurance coverage of rapid, at-home tests, won’t be retroactive. That 
means Americans who have been shelling out roughly $25 for a package 
containing two of the popular Abbott BinaxNOW rapid tests can’t submit 
receipts for tests they’ve already purchased.

Other details of that requirement 
were unclear Thursday, including if there will be any limitations on the
 number of at-home tests that must be covered.

While the Biden administration has 
sought to reduce supply bottlenecks in producing those tests, Shah said 
some states are still having difficulty acquiring large volumes of the 
Abbott at-home tests.

That brand, which has been found to 
be highly accurate, has been relied on heavily even as more options have
 come on the market. Part of that demand comes from familiarity: Those 
administering tests in large settings have become familiar with their 
use.

Another challenge with increasing the
 use of at-home tests will be ensuring that individuals know what to do 
if they test positive.

Michael Fraser, ASTHO’s chief 
executive officer, said state health officials have been discussing 
whether those at-home tests should include an insert to help explain who
 to call and other next steps, so that contact tracing can occur.

“There is some concern that with the 
increase in at-home testing, getting those results reported to state 
health departments might be difficult, because the result doesn’t 
automatically go to public health authorities,” Fraser said.

However, there won’t be many results 
to get to state and local health officials if Americans with private 
insurance balk at fronting the money for tests while they await 
reimbursement.

Shah said a more accessible model 
would be to have individuals show their insurance card at a pharmacy as 
they would when getting a flu shot or picking up a prescription, rather 
than being charged at the register.

Having to pay for the tests, then wait for repayment, “introduces an access challenge for a lot of folks,” he said.

The Biden administration also plans 
to boost the number of free at-home tests distributed at community 
health centers and rural clinics, though those are intended to aid those
 who are not covered by private insurance.

Laura Olson covers the nation's capital as a senior reporter for States Newsroom, a network of nonprofit outlets that includes Kansas Reflector.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638546938939.png" alt="Under a proposal announced Thursday by President Joe Biden, Americans can get reimbursed for the roughly $25 cost of Abbott BinaxNOW rapid tests. (Laura Olson/States Newsroom)" />
 <figcaption>Under a proposal announced Thursday by President Joe Biden, Americans can get reimbursed for the roughly $25 cost of Abbott BinaxNOW rapid tests. (Laura Olson/States Newsroom)</figcaption>
 </figure>By LAURA OLSON <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/12/02/at-home-covid-tests-to-be-covered-by-insurance-but-details-still-to-come/">States Newsroom</a>WASHINGTON — State health officials 
on Thursday welcomed the Biden administration’s plan to require private 
health insurers to reimburse Americans for the cost of rapid, at-home 
COVID-19 tests — though the officials also raised questions about 
whether the process will be burdensome.Making those tests more accessible 
will allow Americans to get results quickly and in the privacy of their 
own homes. That change may encourage more people to swab their nose when
 they first notice potential symptoms, experts from the Association of 
State and Territorial Health Officials told reporters.“In this next phase of the pandemic, 
rapid access to rapid testing will be key,” said Nirav Shah, director of
 Maine’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adding that it can 
help to combat potential surges and to pinpoint infections quickly so 
antiviral treatments can be used.But several challenges could limit the impact of the cost reduction.That includes lingering problems with
 sufficient supplies, uncertainty about the details of the reimbursement
 process, and questions about any potential effect on the data that’s 
reaching state and local health departments about infections in their 
communities.<h2>Official guidance in January</h2>Under the proposal that President Joe
 Biden announced Thursday, three federal departments — Health and Human 
Services, Labor and the Treasury — will issue official guidance by Jan. 
15 that will detail what exactly private insurers must cover when it 
comes to rapid COVID-19 tests.Those insurers already are required 
to pay for the PCR tests that must be sent to a laboratory for 
processing and take longer for results.The upcoming change requiring 
insurance coverage of rapid, at-home tests, won’t be retroactive. That 
means Americans who have been shelling out roughly $25 for a package 
containing two of the popular Abbott BinaxNOW rapid tests can’t submit 
receipts for tests they’ve already purchased.Other details of that requirement 
were unclear Thursday, including if there will be any limitations on the
 number of at-home tests that must be covered.While the Biden administration has 
sought to reduce supply bottlenecks in producing those tests, Shah said 
some states are still having difficulty acquiring large volumes of the 
Abbott at-home tests.That brand, which has been found to 
be highly accurate, has been relied on heavily even as more options have
 come on the market. Part of that demand comes from familiarity: Those 
administering tests in large settings have become familiar with their 
use.<h2>What if you test positive?</h2>Another challenge with increasing the
 use of at-home tests will be ensuring that individuals know what to do 
if they test positive.Michael Fraser, ASTHO’s chief 
executive officer, said state health officials have been discussing 
whether those at-home tests should include an insert to help explain who
 to call and other next steps, so that contact tracing can occur.“There is some concern that with the 
increase in at-home testing, getting those results reported to state 
health departments might be difficult, because the result doesn’t 
automatically go to public health authorities,” Fraser said.However, there won’t be many results 
to get to state and local health officials if Americans with private 
insurance balk at fronting the money for tests while they await 
reimbursement.Shah said a more accessible model 
would be to have individuals show their insurance card at a pharmacy as 
they would when getting a flu shot or picking up a prescription, rather 
than being charged at the register.Having to pay for the tests, then wait for repayment, “introduces an access challenge for a lot of folks,” he said.The Biden administration also plans 
to boost the number of free at-home tests distributed at community 
health centers and rural clinics, though those are intended to aid those
 who are not covered by private insurance.Laura Olson covers the nation's capital as a senior reporter for States Newsroom, a network of nonprofit outlets that includes Kansas Reflector.&nbsp;

At-home COVID tests to be covered by insurance — details still to come

This holiday shopping season, <a href="https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker" target="_blank">BBB Scam Tracker</a>
 has received numerous reports about shipping tricks that scammers use 
to steal from online shoppers. The con artists are exploiting PayPal's 
polices by delivering incorrect items and using stolen tracking numbers.

People are shopping online and are finding amazing deals, often brand
 name goods at a significant discount. Often, the items are large – such
 as pieces of furniture or a vaccum cleaner. The website and the 
products look legitimate, so consumers are deciding to take a chance and
 make a purchase. The site directs them to pay through PayPal, which 
leads many to believe it's safe. &nbsp;

After checkout, a confirmation email arrives that contains a tracking
 number from UPS, FedEx, or another shipping service. After a few weeks,
 the package arrives, but it’s not what was expected. For example, one 
shopper ordered a 6 foot artificial Christmas tree, but “received a 
bottle brush Christmas tree no bigger than my hand.” &nbsp;Another shopper 
told BBB that they ordered “a pressured machine washer for $78...” and 
received “a yellow shirt that’s not worth $2.” In another common version
 of this scam, the package is delivered... but to the wrong address.&nbsp;

When consumers try to correct the mistake, they are finding that the 
ecommerce site is either unresponsive or unhelpful. In some cases, the 
site doesn’t provide contact information; in others, no one responds to 
emails or calls.&nbsp;

Some scam victims report filing claims with PayPal in order to get a refund. PayPal's <a href="https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/paypal-safety-and-security" target="_blank">protection promise</a>
 says customers can open a dispute if the package never arrives, if the 
item received is counterfeit or differs significantly from what was 
ordered. However, not all claims were resolved to the buyer’s 
satisfaction. For example, one shopper reported the following experience
 after ordering a desk online and filing a dispute though PayPal. “I was
 contacted by PayPal and told they had found in favor of the seller. 
They had apparently received confirmation of delivery of said desk to my
 house according to the tracking number… PayPal did not give me any 
option to discuss their decision, to argue why they found in favor of 
the seller. They just closed the case.” &nbsp;

BBB contacted PayPal about the <a href="https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker" target="_blank">BBB Scam Tracker</a>
 reports. After looking into the stolen tracking code issue, they 
replied: "We notified various shipping carriers of this issue allowing 
tracking data to be stolen and we believe it has been closed. In 
addition, we made enhancements to our algorithms to identify and disable
 these fraudulent bad actors. In fact, we are stopping a significant 
majority of these fraudulent sellers at first transaction through our 
detection program and have refunded customers impacted by this fraud 
scheme even if they did not appeal our decision."

Protect Yourself from a Package Delivery Scam: &nbsp;

Learn more about spotting and reporting <a href="https://www.paypal.com/us/smarthelp/article/how-do-i-report-potential-fraud,-spoof-or-unauthorized-transactions-to-paypal-faq2422" target="_blank">PayPal fraud</a>. For more resources on shipping fraud, see&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fedex.com/en-us/trust-center/report-fraud.html" target="_blank">FedEx's website</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ups.com/us/en/help-center/legal-terms-conditions/fight-fraud.page" target="_blank">UPS's online resource center</a>. To learn more about&nbsp;scams, go to <a href="https://www.bbb.org/scamtips" target="_blank">BBB.org/ScamTips</a>.

If you’ve been targeted by this scam, help others avoid the same problem by reporting your experience at <a href="https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker" target="_blank">BBB.org/ScamTracker</a>.&nbsp;

NOTE: <a href="https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/san-jose/profile/payment-processing-services/paypal-inc-1216-210387" target="_blank">PayPal Inc.</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/us/tn/memphis/profile/mailing-services/fedex-corporation-0543-3310" target="_blank">FedEx Corporation</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/us/ga/atlanta/profile/delivery-service/united-parcel-service-0443-8866" target="_blank">United Parcel Service</a>&nbsp;are BBB Accredited Businesses.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579883951052.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BBBThis holiday shopping season, <a href="https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker" target="_blank">BBB Scam Tracker</a>
 has received numerous reports about shipping tricks that scammers use 
to steal from online shoppers. The con artists are exploiting PayPal's 
polices by delivering incorrect items and using stolen tracking numbers.<h2>How the&nbsp;Scam&nbsp;Works:&nbsp;</h2>People are shopping online and are finding amazing deals, often brand
 name goods at a significant discount. Often, the items are large – such
 as pieces of furniture or a vaccum cleaner. The website and the 
products look legitimate, so consumers are deciding to take a chance and
 make a purchase. The site directs them to pay through PayPal, which 
leads many to believe it's safe. &nbsp;After checkout, a confirmation email arrives that contains a tracking
 number from UPS, FedEx, or another shipping service. After a few weeks,
 the package arrives, but it’s not what was expected. For example, one 
shopper ordered a 6 foot artificial Christmas tree, but “received a 
bottle brush Christmas tree no bigger than my hand.” &nbsp;Another shopper 
told BBB that they ordered “a pressured machine washer for $78...” and 
received “a yellow shirt that’s not worth $2.” In another common version
 of this scam, the package is delivered... but to the wrong address.&nbsp;When consumers try to correct the mistake, they are finding that the 
ecommerce site is either unresponsive or unhelpful. In some cases, the 
site doesn’t provide contact information; in others, no one responds to 
emails or calls.&nbsp;Some scam victims report filing claims with PayPal in order to get a refund. PayPal's <a href="https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/paypal-safety-and-security" target="_blank">protection promise</a>
 says customers can open a dispute if the package never arrives, if the 
item received is counterfeit or differs significantly from what was 
ordered. However, not all claims were resolved to the buyer’s 
satisfaction. For example, one shopper reported the following experience
 after ordering a desk online and filing a dispute though PayPal. “I was
 contacted by PayPal and told they had found in favor of the seller. 
They had apparently received confirmation of delivery of said desk to my
 house according to the tracking number… PayPal did not give me any 
option to discuss their decision, to argue why they found in favor of 
the seller. They just closed the case.” &nbsp;BBB contacted PayPal about the <a href="https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker" target="_blank">BBB Scam Tracker</a>
 reports. After looking into the stolen tracking code issue, they 
replied: "We notified various shipping carriers of this issue allowing 
tracking data to be stolen and we believe it has been closed. In 
addition, we made enhancements to our algorithms to identify and disable
 these fraudulent bad actors. In fact, we are stopping a significant 
majority of these fraudulent sellers at first transaction through our 
detection program and have refunded customers impacted by this fraud 
scheme even if they did not appeal our decision."<h2>Protect Yourself from a Package Delivery Scam: &nbsp;</h2><ul>
 <li>Before paying, know your rights and responsibilities.&nbsp;In everything from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/investigations/18409-bbb-study-shows-how-fake-check-scams-bait-consumers" target="_blank">check cashing scams</a>&nbsp;to cons involving new&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/scams/13038-how-to-avoid-digital-wallet-scams-on-paypal-venmo-and-other-services" target="_blank">peer-to-peer payment systems</a>,
 scammers often take advantage of what consumers don’t know when it 
comes to processing payments. Don’t make a purchase from a shady seller 
assuming the purchase will be protected no matter what.&nbsp; </li><li>Before buying online, confirm the site has real contact information.&nbsp;Make sure the seller has a working phone number and address on the website, so you can contact them in case of problems. </li><li>Don’t wait too long to file a dispute. Scammers 
know that PayPal and credit cards have time limits for disputes. They 
often try to delay the process long enough so that shoppers miss the 
window. </li><li>If the price seems too good to be true, there's probably something wrong. Be wary if the item is selling for significantly lower than what's been advertised elsewhere. &nbsp;</li><li>Review BBB online shopping tips.&nbsp;Many online purchase scams use similar tactics. See&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/tips/14040-bbb-tip-smart-shopping-online" target="_blank">BBB.org/ShoppingOnline</a>&nbsp;for more advice.</li>
 </ul><h2>For More Information</h2>Learn more about spotting and reporting <a href="https://www.paypal.com/us/smarthelp/article/how-do-i-report-potential-fraud,-spoof-or-unauthorized-transactions-to-paypal-faq2422" target="_blank">PayPal fraud</a>. For more resources on shipping fraud, see&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fedex.com/en-us/trust-center/report-fraud.html" target="_blank">FedEx's website</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ups.com/us/en/help-center/legal-terms-conditions/fight-fraud.page" target="_blank">UPS's online resource center</a>. To learn more about&nbsp;scams, go to <a href="https://www.bbb.org/scamtips" target="_blank">BBB.org/ScamTips</a>.If you’ve been targeted by this scam, help others avoid the same problem by reporting your experience at <a href="https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker" target="_blank">BBB.org/ScamTracker</a>.&nbsp;NOTE: <a href="https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/san-jose/profile/payment-processing-services/paypal-inc-1216-210387" target="_blank">PayPal Inc.</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/us/tn/memphis/profile/mailing-services/fedex-corporation-0543-3310" target="_blank">FedEx Corporation</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/us/ga/atlanta/profile/delivery-service/united-parcel-service-0443-8866" target="_blank">United Parcel Service</a>&nbsp;are BBB Accredited Businesses.

Scam alert: Tracking code trick costs online shoppers

FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a robbery and have three suspects in custody.

Just before 4p.m. Wednesday, police responded to report of a fight at the Quicker Market at 4005 E. US Highway 50 in Garden City, according to a media release.

Multiple witnesses told police they observed a man get attacked by three other men and that the individuals ran northbound through East Garden Village.

Officers located the three suspects, identified as Gary Fletcher, 24, Texas City, TX; Carlos Watson, 24, Galveston, TX; and Louis Benavides, Jr., 21, Hitchcock, TX, in East Garden Village, and took them into custody.

The investigation revealed that the victim had hired Fletcher, Watson, and Benavides for work in Garden City. Fletcher, Watson, and Benavides became upset with the victim, and a physical altercation occurred, with the victim’s wallet being taken.

 The victim was treated for injuries by Finney County EMS at the scene. Officers later located the victim’s wallet.

Fletcher, Watson, and Benavides are being held without bond in the Finney County Jail on the requested charges of Aggravated Robbery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638463630225.png" alt="Watson-photo Finney Co." />
 <figcaption>Watson-photo Finney Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a robbery and have three suspects in custody.Just before 4p.m. Wednesday, police responded to report of a fight at the Quicker Market at 4005 E. US Highway 50 in Garden City, according to a media release.Multiple witnesses told police they observed a man get attacked by three other men and that the individuals ran northbound through East Garden Village.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638463555059.png" alt="Fletcher photo Finney Co" />
 <figcaption>Fletcher photo Finney Co</figcaption>
 </figure>Officers located the three suspects, identified as Gary Fletcher, 24, Texas City, TX; Carlos Watson, 24, Galveston, TX; and Louis Benavides, Jr., 21, Hitchcock, TX, in East Garden Village, and took them into custody.The investigation revealed that the victim had hired Fletcher, Watson, and Benavides for work in Garden City. Fletcher, Watson, and Benavides became upset with the victim, and a physical altercation occurred, with the victim’s wallet being taken.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638463709005.png" alt="Benavides-photo Finney Co." />
 <figcaption>Benavides-photo Finney Co.</figcaption>
 </figure> The victim was treated for injuries by Finney County EMS at the scene. Officers later located the victim’s wallet.Fletcher, Watson, and Benavides are being held without bond in the Finney County Jail on the requested charges of Aggravated Robbery.

3 jailed in SW Kan. after attack, robbery on man who hired them

KANSAS CITY —Authorities investigating a fatal crash at the Legends Outlet mall in Kansas City, Kansas have identified the victim.

A vehicle struck Lawrence Edward Walford, 82, Kansas City, Kansas, as he was walking in the parking lot outside the Walmart, according to KCK Police spokesperson Nancy Chartrand.

EMS transported the Walford to an area hospital where he died. A second victim was also transported but has been released from the hospital.

The driver of the vehicle identified as a 56-year-old woman remains hospitalized in critical condition. Police released no additional details Friday afternoon.

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Police say one person died and two others were injured when a vehicle hit two pedestrians and crashed into a Walmart at a Kansas City, Kansas shopping plaza. 

Police spokeswoman Nancy Chartrand says the crash occurred Thursday afternoon in the Legends Outlet mall. Three people, including the driver, were taken to hospitals. One of the pedestrians later died. Chartrand says investigators believe the crash was accidental and might have occurred when the driver suffered a medical emergency.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638492004705.png" alt="The crash occurred at the Legends Outlet mall. photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>The crash occurred at the Legends Outlet mall. photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Authorities investigating a fatal crash at the Legends Outlet mall in Kansas City, Kansas have identified the victim.A vehicle struck Lawrence Edward Walford, 82, Kansas City, Kansas, as he was walking in the parking lot outside the Walmart, according to KCK Police spokesperson Nancy Chartrand.EMS transported the Walford to an area hospital where he died. A second victim was also transported but has been released from the hospital.The driver of the vehicle identified as a 56-year-old woman remains hospitalized in critical condition. Police released no additional details Friday afternoon.------KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Police say one person died and two others were injured when a vehicle hit two pedestrians and crashed into a Walmart at a Kansas City, Kansas shopping plaza. Police spokeswoman Nancy Chartrand says the crash occurred Thursday afternoon in the Legends Outlet mall. Three people, including the driver, were taken to hospitals. One of the pedestrians later died. Chartrand says investigators believe the crash was accidental and might have occurred when the driver suffered a medical emergency.

Police ID Kan. man who died after crash at Legends Outlet mall

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged theft.

Just before 2:30p.m. Thursday, officers filed a report for theft in the 300 block of E. Poyntz Avenue in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Faith Furniture reported a 60-year-old man later identified as Mark Hornbaker of Stafford stole an Ashley Furniture box truck containing cabinetry and flooring. 

The Kansas Highway Patrol later caught and arrested Hornbaker on requested charges that included possession of stolen property. He is being held in the Geary County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638544984602.png" alt="Hornbaker was convicted for criminal possession of a weapon and sentenced in July of 2020, according to the&nbsp; Kansas Dept. of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Hornbaker was convicted for criminal possession of a weapon and sentenced in July of 2020, according to the&nbsp; Kansas Dept. of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged theft.Just before 2:30p.m. Thursday, officers filed a report for theft in the 300 block of E. Poyntz Avenue in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Faith Furniture reported a 60-year-old man later identified as Mark Hornbaker of Stafford stole an Ashley Furniture box truck containing cabinetry and flooring. The Kansas Highway Patrol later caught and arrested Hornbaker on requested charges that included possession of stolen property. He is being held in the Geary County Jail.

Police: Kansas man stole box truck with cabinets, flooring

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden on Friday pledged to make it “very, very difficult” for Russia’s Vladimir Putin to take military action in Ukraine and said new initiatives coming from his administration are intended to deter Russian aggression.

The president offered the measured warning to Putin in response to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-russia-ukraine-crimea-158c3406821bb207c07a279c5d48fadf">growing concern about a Russian buildup&nbsp;</a>of troops on the Ukrainian border and increasingly bellicose rhetoric from the Kremlin.

“What I am doing is putting together what I believe to be will be the most comprehensive and meaningful set of initiatives to make it very, very difficult for Mr. Putin to go ahead and do what people are worried he may do,” Biden told reporters.

There are signs that the White House and Kremlin are close to arranging a conversation next week between Biden and Putin. Putin’s foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov told reporters Friday that arrangements have been made for a Putin-Biden call in the coming days, adding that the date will be announced after Moscow and Washington finalize details. The Russians say a date has been agreed upon, but declined to say when.

Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have also tentatively agreed to have a call next week, according to a person close to the Ukrainian president who was not authorized to speak publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said administration officials have “engaged in the possibility” of a Biden-Putin call. White House officials did not respond to a request for comment on the expected Zelenskyy call.

“It certainly would be an opportunity to discuss our serious concerns about the bellicose rhetoric, about the military buildup that we’re seeing on the border of Ukraine,” Psaki said of a potential Biden-Putin call.

Biden did not detail what actions he was weighing. But Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who met Thursday with Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Sweden, said the U.S. has threatened new sanctions. He did not detail the potential sanctions but suggested the effort would not be effective.

“If the new ‘sanctions from hell’ come, we will respond,” Lavrov said. “We can’t fail to respond.”

Psaki said the administration would look to coordinate with European allies if it moved forward with sanctions. She noted that bitter memories of Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea, the Black Sea peninsula that had been under Ukraine’s control since 1954, are front of mind as the White House considers the way forward.

“We know what President Putin has done in the past,” Psaki said. “We see that he is putting in place the capacity to take action in short order.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-europe-russia-ukraine-moscow-aae934e3b73e428da957e9b1b6ddc4f1">Deep differences were on display</a>&nbsp;during the Blinken-Lavrov meeting, with the Russia official charging the West was “playing with fire” by denying Russia a say in any further NATO expansion into countries of the former Soviet Union. Zelenskyy has pushed for Ukraine to join the alliance, which holds out the promise of membership but hasn’t set a a timeline.

Blinken this week said the U.S. has “made it clear to the Kremlin that we will respond resolutely, including with a range of high-impact economic measures that we’ve refrained from using in the past.”

He did not detail what sanctions were being weighed, but one potentially could be to cut off Russia from the SWIFT system of international payments. The European Union’s Parliament approved a nonbinding resolution in April to cut off Russia from SWIFT if its troops entered Ukraine.

Such a move would go far toward blocking Russian businesses from the global financial system. Western allies reportedly considered such a step in 2014 and 2015, during earlier Russian-led escalations of tensions over Ukraine.

Then-Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev said it would be tantamount to “a declaration of war.”

U.S.-Russia relations have been rocky since Biden took office.

In addition to the Ukraine issue, the Biden administration has levied sanctions against Russian targets and called out Putin on Kremlin interference in U.S. elections, malign cyberactivity against U.S. businesses, and the treatment of opposition figure Alexei Navalny, who was poisoned last year and then later imprisoned.

Putin and Biden met face to face in Geneva in June, with the U.S. president warning if Russia crossed certain red lines — including going after major American infrastructure — his administration would respond and “the consequences of that would be devastating.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638561538098.png" alt="President Biden did not detail what actions he was weighing during a White House Press conference Friday -photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>President Biden did not detail what actions he was weighing during a White House Press conference Friday -photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden on Friday pledged to make it “very, very difficult” for Russia’s Vladimir Putin to take military action in Ukraine and said new initiatives coming from his administration are intended to deter Russian aggression.The president offered the measured warning to Putin in response to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-russia-ukraine-crimea-158c3406821bb207c07a279c5d48fadf">growing concern about a Russian buildup&nbsp;</a>of troops on the Ukrainian border and increasingly bellicose rhetoric from the Kremlin.“What I am doing is putting together what I believe to be will be the most comprehensive and meaningful set of initiatives to make it very, very difficult for Mr. Putin to go ahead and do what people are worried he may do,” Biden told reporters.There are signs that the White House and Kremlin are close to arranging a conversation next week between Biden and Putin. Putin’s foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov told reporters Friday that arrangements have been made for a Putin-Biden call in the coming days, adding that the date will be announced after Moscow and Washington finalize details. The Russians say a date has been agreed upon, but declined to say when.Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have also tentatively agreed to have a call next week, according to a person close to the Ukrainian president who was not authorized to speak publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity.White House press secretary Jen Psaki said administration officials have “engaged in the possibility” of a Biden-Putin call. White House officials did not respond to a request for comment on the expected Zelenskyy call.“It certainly would be an opportunity to discuss our serious concerns about the bellicose rhetoric, about the military buildup that we’re seeing on the border of Ukraine,” Psaki said of a potential Biden-Putin call.Biden did not detail what actions he was weighing. But Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who met Thursday with Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Sweden, said the U.S. has threatened new sanctions. He did not detail the potential sanctions but suggested the effort would not be effective.“If the new ‘sanctions from hell’ come, we will respond,” Lavrov said. “We can’t fail to respond.”Psaki said the administration would look to coordinate with European allies if it moved forward with sanctions. She noted that bitter memories of Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea, the Black Sea peninsula that had been under Ukraine’s control since 1954, are front of mind as the White House considers the way forward.“We know what President Putin has done in the past,” Psaki said. “We see that he is putting in place the capacity to take action in short order.”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-europe-russia-ukraine-moscow-aae934e3b73e428da957e9b1b6ddc4f1">Deep differences were on display</a>&nbsp;during the Blinken-Lavrov meeting, with the Russia official charging the West was “playing with fire” by denying Russia a say in any further NATO expansion into countries of the former Soviet Union. Zelenskyy has pushed for Ukraine to join the alliance, which holds out the promise of membership but hasn’t set a a timeline.Blinken this week said the U.S. has “made it clear to the Kremlin that we will respond resolutely, including with a range of high-impact economic measures that we’ve refrained from using in the past.”He did not detail what sanctions were being weighed, but one potentially could be to cut off Russia from the SWIFT system of international payments. The European Union’s Parliament approved a nonbinding resolution in April to cut off Russia from SWIFT if its troops entered Ukraine.Such a move would go far toward blocking Russian businesses from the global financial system. Western allies reportedly considered such a step in 2014 and 2015, during earlier Russian-led escalations of tensions over Ukraine.Then-Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev said it would be tantamount to “a declaration of war.”U.S.-Russia relations have been rocky since Biden took office.In addition to the Ukraine issue, the Biden administration has levied sanctions against Russian targets and called out Putin on Kremlin interference in U.S. elections, malign cyberactivity against U.S. businesses, and the treatment of opposition figure Alexei Navalny, who was poisoned last year and then later imprisoned.Putin and Biden met face to face in Geneva in June, with the U.S. president warning if Russia crossed certain red lines — including going after major American infrastructure — his administration would respond and “the consequences of that would be devastating.”—

Biden warns Russia's Vladimir Putin against Ukraine invasion

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Health officials have confirmed six cases of the omicron variant in southeastern Nebraska, adding to the growing number of confirmations of the new, mutant version of the coronavirus around the country. 

State and local health officials said Friday in a news release that the state's first case likely stemmed from one of the six who recently traveled to Nigeria and returned on Nov. 23. Officials say that person became symptomatic the following day. Health officials say the five others were likely exposed through household contact with the first case. Officials say only one of the six is vaccinated. None of the six had required hospitalization as of Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638148803210.png" alt="&nbsp;3D structure of spike with amino acid changes in Omicron -photo courtesy GISAID" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;3D structure of spike with amino acid changes in Omicron -photo courtesy GISAID</figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Health officials have confirmed six cases of the omicron variant in southeastern Nebraska, adding to the growing number of confirmations of the new, mutant version of the coronavirus around the country. State and local health officials said Friday in a news release that the state's first case likely stemmed from one of the six who recently traveled to Nigeria and returned on Nov. 23. Officials say that person became symptomatic the following day. Health officials say the five others were likely exposed through household contact with the first case. Officials say only one of the six is vaccinated. None of the six had required hospitalization as of Friday.

6 cases of omicron variant confirmed in Nebraska

SALINE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary and asking for help to identify a suspet.

Just after 10:15 p.m. Thursday, police responded to a business alarm at the Snak Atak convenience store, 1619 W. Magnolia Road in Salina, according to Crimestoppes of Saline County.

At the scene officers found a shattered window and entry had been made into the store. An inventory of products revealed packs of various brands of cigarettes and cigarette lighters were taken. Between the products taken and the shattered window, the loss value is more than $1,900.

Surveillance video showed a single suspect, a man possibly wearing blue jeans and a gray colored hooded sweatshirt with unknown writing on the front, was the person who committed this burglary.

If you have any information concerning this incident or identification of the individual involved, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000. Tipsters may also contact the Salina Police Department at (785) 826-7210, or Officer Newton, case 2021-37645. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638550162412.png" alt="Photos courtesy Crimestoppers" />
 <figcaption>Photos courtesy Crimestoppers</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary and asking for help to identify a suspet.Just after 10:15 p.m. Thursday, police responded to a business alarm at the Snak Atak convenience store, 1619 W. Magnolia Road in Salina, according to Crimestoppes of Saline County.At the scene officers found a shattered window and entry had been made into the store. An inventory of products revealed packs of various brands of cigarettes and cigarette lighters were taken. Between the products taken and the shattered window, the loss value is more than $1,900.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638550202032.png" alt="The suspect as seen in security camera image" />
 <figcaption>The suspect as seen in security camera image</figcaption>
 </figure>Surveillance video showed a single suspect, a man possibly wearing blue jeans and a gray colored hooded sweatshirt with unknown writing on the front, was the person who committed this burglary.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638550257802.png" alt="Another photo of the suspect." />
 <figcaption>Another photo of the suspect.</figcaption>
 </figure>If you have any information concerning this incident or identification of the individual involved, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000. Tipsters may also contact the Salina Police Department at (785) 826-7210, or Officer Newton, case 2021-37645.

Police ask for help to ID  Kan. convenience store burglary suspect

By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/12/02/kansas-hospitals-health-officials-prepare-for-omicron-variants-arrival/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — As confirmed cases of 
the omicron variant of COVID-19 begin to pop up across the country, 
Kansas health officials and hospitals are preparing for the variant’s 
arrival in the state.

On Friday, health officials confirmed six cases of the omicron variant in southeastern Nebraska, according to a media release from state officials.

On Wednesday, the California and San Francisco Departments of Public 
Health confirmed a recent COVID-19 case caused by omicron in a resident 
who had just returned from South Africa, where the variant was first 
identified. The first confirmed case was followed on Thursday with 
reports that the variant had been identified in COVID cases<a target="_blank" href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2021/12/02/second-u-s-case-of-omicron-detected-in-minnesota/"> in Minnesota</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://coloradonewsline.com/briefs/colorados-first-omicron-variant-case-detected-in-arapahoe-county/">Colorado</a>.

With the arrival of omicron in the U.S., concerns about the efficacy 
of vaccines and treatment options, like monoclonal antibodies, against 
the variant have arisen. Matt Shoemaker, an infectious disease expert 
with the University of Kansas Health System, said omicron is still 
largely an unknown.

“I think we’ll have to kind of see how these patterns play out,” 
Shoemaker said during a briefing on Tuesday. “We don’t know about the 
severity of illness, just like we don’t know about the effectiveness of 
vaccines and monoclonal antibodies. So, at this point, unfortunately 
it’s watchful waiting.”

The World Health Organization has labeled omicron “a variant of 
concern” and it is thought to be more infectious than the delta variant.
 According to a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/coronavirus/article256272722.html">KU Health System medical expert in reporting from the Kansas City Star</a>, there is a small chance the omicron variant is already in the Kansas City area and, if not, will arrive in the coming weeks.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment is already on the 
lookout for the omicron variant, said spokesman Matthew Lara. The 
department routinely works with lab partners to obtain positive COVID-19
 samples for additional genomic sequencing tests to identify variants.

Lara said omicron is different from delta because it has what is known as an “s-gene dropout.”

“All positive samples will be run a second time using this test to 
look for s-gene dropout,” Lara said. “All samples that are missing the 
s-gene on the second test will then be prioritized for genomic 
sequencing to determine if it is the omicron variant.”

In the meantime, Kansas hospitals are still focusing on balancing 
everyday health emergencies with caring for patients with the delta 
variant, which has packed hospitals, said Cindy Samuelson, spokesperson 
for the Kansas Hospital Association. KDHE reported Wednesday the state 
has had 4,477 new cases, 19 new deaths and 133 new hospitalizations 
since Monday.

Samuelson said hospital officials are urging Kansans to take steps to
 keep themselves healthy and reduce the burden on health care staff.

“Right now, we’re continuing to really urge community members to get 
vaccinated. If they are vaccinated and they can get a booster then they 
should do that,” Samuelson said, adding that, “washing your hands, 
wearing a mask and keeping a safe distance are also essentially 
important during this time.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638547361854.png" alt="Matt Shoemaker of the University of Kansas Health System is urging patience as health officials analyze the omicron variant of COVID-19. (Screen Capture of KU Health System Facebook)" />
 <figcaption>Matt Shoemaker of the University of Kansas Health System is urging patience as health officials analyze the omicron variant of COVID-19. (Screen Capture of KU Health System Facebook)</figcaption>
 </figure>By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/12/02/kansas-hospitals-health-officials-prepare-for-omicron-variants-arrival/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — As confirmed cases of 
the omicron variant of COVID-19 begin to pop up across the country, 
Kansas health officials and hospitals are preparing for the variant’s 
arrival in the state.On Friday, health officials confirmed six cases of the omicron variant in southeastern Nebraska, according to a media release from state officials.On Wednesday, the California and San Francisco Departments of Public 
Health confirmed a recent COVID-19 case caused by omicron in a resident 
who had just returned from South Africa, where the variant was first 
identified. The first confirmed case was followed on Thursday with 
reports that the variant had been identified in COVID cases<a target="_blank" href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2021/12/02/second-u-s-case-of-omicron-detected-in-minnesota/"> in Minnesota</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://coloradonewsline.com/briefs/colorados-first-omicron-variant-case-detected-in-arapahoe-county/">Colorado</a>.With the arrival of omicron in the U.S., concerns about the efficacy 
of vaccines and treatment options, like monoclonal antibodies, against 
the variant have arisen. Matt Shoemaker, an infectious disease expert 
with the University of Kansas Health System, said omicron is still 
largely an unknown.“I think we’ll have to kind of see how these patterns play out,” 
Shoemaker said during a briefing on Tuesday. “We don’t know about the 
severity of illness, just like we don’t know about the effectiveness of 
vaccines and monoclonal antibodies. So, at this point, unfortunately 
it’s watchful waiting.”The World Health Organization has labeled omicron “a variant of 
concern” and it is thought to be more infectious than the delta variant.
 According to a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/coronavirus/article256272722.html">KU Health System medical expert in reporting from the Kansas City Star</a>, there is a small chance the omicron variant is already in the Kansas City area and, if not, will arrive in the coming weeks.The Kansas Department of Health and Environment is already on the 
lookout for the omicron variant, said spokesman Matthew Lara. The 
department routinely works with lab partners to obtain positive COVID-19
 samples for additional genomic sequencing tests to identify variants.Lara said omicron is different from delta because it has what is known as an “s-gene dropout.”“All positive samples will be run a second time using this test to 
look for s-gene dropout,” Lara said. “All samples that are missing the 
s-gene on the second test will then be prioritized for genomic 
sequencing to determine if it is the omicron variant.”In the meantime, Kansas hospitals are still focusing on balancing 
everyday health emergencies with caring for patients with the delta 
variant, which has packed hospitals, said Cindy Samuelson, spokesperson 
for the Kansas Hospital Association. KDHE reported Wednesday the state 
has had 4,477 new cases, 19 new deaths and 133 new hospitalizations 
since Monday.Samuelson said hospital officials are urging Kansans to take steps to
 keep themselves healthy and reduce the burden on health care staff.“Right now, we’re continuing to really urge community members to get 
vaccinated. If they are vaccinated and they can get a booster then they 
should do that,” Samuelson said, adding that, “washing your hands, 
wearing a mask and keeping a safe distance are also essentially 
important during this time.”

Kan. hospitals, health officials prepare for omicron variant’s arrival

TOPEKA, Kan. — The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 4,712&nbsp; to a total of 474,479, the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;The state reported 25 additional COVID-19 deaths for a total of 6,730.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.

As of August 1, 2021, in accordance with an&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">updated CDC/CSTE surveillance case definition</a>, a confirmed case is defined as a person who tested positive by molecular detection (e.g., PCR, NAA) or identification of SARS-CoV-2 through genetic sequencing. A probable case is defined as a person with: a) presumptive lab evidence (antigen) or b) no lab testing but meeting clinical case criteria and is epi-linked. A person will be counted as a new surveillance case (e.g. reinfection) if they test positive for SARS-CoV-2 by a diagnostic test (i.e., molecular, antigen) and it has been greater than 90 days since the previous positive diagnostic test. In addition, a person with sequencing results identifying different SARS-CoV-2 lineages regardless of the time since the previous specimen sequenced will be counted as a new surveillance case.&nbsp;

Cases occurring between&nbsp;September 1, 2020&nbsp;and July 29, 2021 were classified by&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">previous CDC/CSTE case definition,&nbsp;</a>and cases prior to September 1, 2020 were classified by the&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/case-definitions/coronavirus-disease-2019-2020/" target="_blank">original case definition</a>.

TOPEKA, Kan. — The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 4,712&nbsp; to a total of 474,479, the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;The state reported 25 additional COVID-19 deaths for a total of 6,730.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638554347237.png" alt="Friday December 3, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Friday December 3, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.As of August 1, 2021, in accordance with an&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">updated CDC/CSTE surveillance case definition</a>, a confirmed case is defined as a person who tested positive by molecular detection (e.g., PCR, NAA) or identification of SARS-CoV-2 through genetic sequencing. A probable case is defined as a person with: a) presumptive lab evidence (antigen) or b) no lab testing but meeting clinical case criteria and is epi-linked. A person will be counted as a new surveillance case (e.g. reinfection) if they test positive for SARS-CoV-2 by a diagnostic test (i.e., molecular, antigen) and it has been greater than 90 days since the previous positive diagnostic test. In addition, a person with sequencing results identifying different SARS-CoV-2 lineages regardless of the time since the previous specimen sequenced will be counted as a new surveillance case.&nbsp;Cases occurring between&nbsp;September 1, 2020&nbsp;and July 29, 2021 were classified by&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">previous CDC/CSTE case definition,&nbsp;</a>and cases prior to September 1, 2020 were classified by the&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/case-definitions/coronavirus-disease-2019-2020/" target="_blank">original case definition</a>.

KDHE: 4,700 new cases; 25 more COVID deaths

OXFORD TOWNSHIP, Mich. (AP) — A prosecutor filed involuntary manslaughter charges Friday against the parents of a 15-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michigan-oxford-high-school-shooting-1fc42fc06308770d302a59c266604c58">accused of killing four students&nbsp;</a>and wounding seven other people at a Michigan High School.

James and Jennifer Crumbley were charged with four counts each of involuntary manslaughter.

Authorities have said Ethan Crumbley opened fire shortly before 1 p.m. Tuesday at Oxford High School, roughly 30 miles (50 kilometers) north of Detroit. Seven students and a teacher were shot before Crumbley surrendered to sheriff’s deputies.

Three of the students died Tuesday. The fourth died Wednesday at a hospital.

The semi-automatic gun used in the shooting was purchased legally by Crumbley’s father last week, according to investigators, and given to the boy.

“The parents were the only individuals in the position to know the access to weapons,” Oakland County prosecutor Karen McDonald said Thursday. The gun “seems to have been just freely available to that individual.”

She said then that the parents’ actions went “far beyond negligence.”

During a Friday news conference, McDonald said the parents were summoned a few hours before the shooting after a teacher found a drawing of a gun, a person bleeding and the words “help me.” 

&nbsp;Crumbley was returned to his classroom and later emerged from a bathroom, firing a gun at students. He’s charged with murder and other other charges.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638551635768.png" alt="Ethan Crumbley has been charged as an adult with two dozen crimes, including murder, attempted murder and terrorism. -photo Oakland Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Ethan Crumbley has been charged as an adult with two dozen crimes, including murder, attempted murder and terrorism. -photo Oakland Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>OXFORD TOWNSHIP, Mich. (AP) — A prosecutor filed involuntary manslaughter charges Friday against the parents of a 15-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michigan-oxford-high-school-shooting-1fc42fc06308770d302a59c266604c58">accused of killing four students&nbsp;</a>and wounding seven other people at a Michigan High School.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638552839270.png" alt="Oakland County prosecutor Karen McDonald during Friday's announcement-image courtesy Oakland Co. District Attorney's office" />
 <figcaption>Oakland County prosecutor Karen McDonald during Friday's announcement-image courtesy Oakland Co. District Attorney's office</figcaption>
 </figure>James and Jennifer Crumbley were charged with four counts each of involuntary manslaughter.Authorities have said Ethan Crumbley opened fire shortly before 1 p.m. Tuesday at Oxford High School, roughly 30 miles (50 kilometers) north of Detroit. Seven students and a teacher were shot before Crumbley surrendered to sheriff’s deputies.Three of the students died Tuesday. The fourth died Wednesday at a hospital.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638381044457.png" alt="First responders on the scene of the school shooting photo courtesy WWJT" />
 <figcaption>First responders on the scene of the school shooting photo courtesy WWJT</figcaption>
 </figure>The semi-automatic gun used in the shooting was purchased legally by Crumbley’s father last week, according to investigators, and given to the boy.“The parents were the only individuals in the position to know the access to weapons,” Oakland County prosecutor Karen McDonald said Thursday. The gun “seems to have been just freely available to that individual.”She said then that the parents’ actions went “far beyond negligence.”During a Friday news conference, McDonald said the parents were summoned a few hours before the shooting after a teacher found a drawing of a gun, a person bleeding and the words “help me.” &nbsp;Crumbley was returned to his classroom and later emerged from a bathroom, firing a gun at students. He’s charged with murder and other other charges.&nbsp;

Teen suspect's parents charged in Michigan school shooting

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Two people died and one firefighter was injured in an early Friday morning house fire on the north end of Kansas City, officials said.

A neighbor called 911 around 5:40 a.m. to report smoke coming from the house, and firefighters arrived to find flames coming from the home, officials said.

A firefighter who then entered the home through the front door fell through the floor into the basement, television&nbsp;station WDAF reported. Fellow firefighters used a ladder to retrieve their colleague, who was treated for burns and minor injuries.

After the fire was extinguished, crews found the bodies of two people — one male and the other female, officials said. Authorities did not immediately identify the victims.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638548437613.png" alt="Police on the scene of the fatal Friday Fire photo courtesy Fox4Kansas City" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the fatal Friday Fire photo courtesy Fox4Kansas City</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — Two people died and one firefighter was injured in an early Friday morning house fire on the north end of Kansas City, officials said.A neighbor called 911 around 5:40 a.m. to report smoke coming from the house, and firefighters arrived to find flames coming from the home, officials said.A firefighter who then entered the home through the front door fell through the floor into the basement, television&nbsp;station WDAF reported. Fellow firefighters used a ladder to retrieve their colleague, who was treated for burns and minor injuries.After the fire was extinguished, crews found the bodies of two people — one male and the other female, officials said. Authorities did not immediately identify the victims.The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Kansas City house fire: 2 dead, firefighter injured 

MANHATTAN —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged theft of Christmas decorations in Manhattan.

Just before 2p.m. Thursday, officers filed a report for theft in the 3100 block of Ella Lane in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 25-year-old woman reported an unknown suspect stole her 12-foot Christmas tree off her front porch.

The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $540. Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

MANHATTAN —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged theft of Christmas decorations in Manhattan.Just before 2p.m. Thursday, officers filed a report for theft in the 3100 block of Ella Lane in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 25-year-old woman reported an unknown suspect stole her 12-foot Christmas tree off her front porch.The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $540. Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

Police: Suspect stole 12 foot Christmas tree from Kansas home

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Police have arrested a man suspected in the deadly shooting last month of another man outside a southeast Wichita restaurant. 

KAKE TV reports that 43-year-old <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=18824413">Marshall Green Jr. was arrested</a> Thursday on suspicion of intentional second-degree murder in the Nov. 10 shooting death of 45-year-old Monzell Brocks.

Police say Brocks was shot around 2:30 a.m. outside a Denny's restaurant, where he worked. Green is being held in the Sedwick County Jail without bond. Online records show Green has prior convictions and served prison terms for aggravated battery and voluntary manslaughter in Sedgwick County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636548289424.png" alt="Police at the scene of the fatal shooing in investigation-photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police at the scene of the fatal shooing in investigation-photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Police have arrested a man suspected in the deadly shooting last month of another man outside a southeast Wichita restaurant. KAKE TV reports that 43-year-old <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=18824413">Marshall Green Jr. was arrested</a> Thursday on suspicion of intentional second-degree murder in the Nov. 10 shooting death of 45-year-old Monzell Brocks. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638543756527.png" alt="Green photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Green photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>Police say Brocks was shot around 2:30 a.m. outside a Denny's restaurant, where he worked. Green is being held in the Sedwick County Jail without bond. Online records show Green has prior convictions and served prison terms for aggravated battery and voluntary manslaughter in Sedgwick County.

Arrest: Man killed outside Kan. restaurant where he worked

KANSAS CITY (AP) — The omicron variant of COVID-19, which had been undetected in the U.S. before the middle of this week, had been discovered <a href="https://www.gisaid.org/hcov19-variants/">in at least five states </a>by the end of Thursday, showing yet again how mutations of the virus can circumnavigate the globe with speed and ease.

Just a day after the first known U.S. case was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-new-variant-omicron-explainer-116ef818ac4a8e7bc23bb28d6511ecad">found in California</a>, tests showed the omicron variant had infected at least five people in the New York City metropolitan area, plus a man from Minnesota who had attended an anime convention in Manhattan in late November.

A Colorado woman who had recently traveled to southern Africa, a Hawaii resident with no recent travel history, and another California resident who traveled to South Africa last month also were infected by the variant, officials said.

Much remains unknown about omicron, including whether it is more contagious, as some health authorities suspect, whether it can thwart vaccines and whether it makes people as sick as the original strain.

Health officials in each state said there was no cause for undue alarm. But the spread of the cases, some involving people who hadn’t been away from home recently, meant the variant was likely already circulating domestically in some parts of the U.S.

“We gotta assume there’s a lot more behind that and that it has been here for a meaningful amount of time,” New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said at a news conference with Gov. Kathy Hochul.

The infected New Yorkers included a 67-year-old woman on Long Island who had recently traveled to South Africa, residents of Brooklyn and Queens and another case possibly linked to travel. At least one person had received a dose of a COVID-19 vaccine but officials did not have details about the vaccination status of the four other cases.

In Minnesota, health officials said a man who had not traveled outside the U.S. began experiencing symptoms the day after attending the Anime NYC 2021 convention in New York City. Minnesota Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm said it’s likely the man contracted COVID-19 at the convention, but officials did not know for sure.

Officials in New York said they were working to trace attendees of the convention, which was held Nov. 19-21 and drew about 50,000 people, according to event organizers. Attendees were required to wear masks and show proof of having received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

It was held at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center as New York City prepared to host the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and braced for throngs of tourists to return after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-business-lifestyle-health-canada-75b91e1770dc99c3a9d682129e2e006c">U.S. opened up to vaccinated international travelers.</a>

City Health Commissioner Dave Chokshi urged people who attended the event to get tested.

“This is not just due to people who are traveling to southern Africa or to other parts of the world where omicron has already been identified,” Chokshi said Thursday.

The Minnesota man began experiencing mild symptoms Nov. 22. He had been vaccinated and received a booster shot in early November, according to health officials in his home state. He sought COVID-19 testing Nov. 24, and his symptoms have subsided, officials said.

Nov. 22 was the same day the person infected in the first California case returned to the U.S. from South Africa.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-science-lifestyle-health-travel-1f007a419afc45c840ad1d8d80eede8f">The California traveler, who was vaccinated,&nbsp;</a>developed mild symptoms and tested positive Monday. The second person in the state didn’t need medical care and was also vaccinated.

The unvaccinated adult infected with the variant in Hawaii had gotten COVID-19 a year ago. The person isn’t currently hospitalized and had “mild-to-moderate” symptoms including headache, body aches and cough, Hawaii Epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Kemble said.

She wouldn’t identify the patient other to say the person lives on the island of Oahu.

Omicron is classified by the World Health Organization as a “variant of concern” as scientists work to determine how it may compare with the predominant delta variant in terms of transmissibility and severity. Scientists also are studying the degree to which existing vaccines and therapies protect against omicron.

Scientists in South Africa first reported it, but the samples came from several countries in southern Africa. And health officials in the Netherlands now say it was found there prior to the South Africa detection.

As comfort over air travel returns, it’s inevitable that new variants like omicron will spread from country to country and state to state, said professor Danielle Ompad, an epidemiologist at New York University’s School of Global Public Health.

“We shouldn’t panic, but we should be concerned,” she said.

Hochul said the case involving the Minnesota visitor underlined the need for everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated against COVID-19 or receive a booster shot if they have not already.

“There is one way to address this — New Yorkers, get vaccinated, get boosted, and get ready,” the Democrat said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638537167399.png" alt="Most recent reported occurrences across the United State-image courtesy GISAID-The GISAID Initiative promotes the rapid sharing of data from all influenza viruses and the coronavirus causing COVID-19. " />
 <figcaption>Most recent reported occurrences across the United State-image courtesy GISAID-The GISAID Initiative promotes the rapid sharing of data from all influenza viruses and the coronavirus causing COVID-19. </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — The omicron variant of COVID-19, which had been undetected in the U.S. before the middle of this week, had been discovered <a href="https://www.gisaid.org/hcov19-variants/">in at least five states </a>by the end of Thursday, showing yet again how mutations of the virus can circumnavigate the globe with speed and ease.Just a day after the first known U.S. case was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-new-variant-omicron-explainer-116ef818ac4a8e7bc23bb28d6511ecad">found in California</a>, tests showed the omicron variant had infected at least five people in the New York City metropolitan area, plus a man from Minnesota who had attended an anime convention in Manhattan in late November.A Colorado woman who had recently traveled to southern Africa, a Hawaii resident with no recent travel history, and another California resident who traveled to South Africa last month also were infected by the variant, officials said.Much remains unknown about omicron, including whether it is more contagious, as some health authorities suspect, whether it can thwart vaccines and whether it makes people as sick as the original strain.Health officials in each state said there was no cause for undue alarm. But the spread of the cases, some involving people who hadn’t been away from home recently, meant the variant was likely already circulating domestically in some parts of the U.S.“We gotta assume there’s a lot more behind that and that it has been here for a meaningful amount of time,” New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said at a news conference with Gov. Kathy Hochul.The infected New Yorkers included a 67-year-old woman on Long Island who had recently traveled to South Africa, residents of Brooklyn and Queens and another case possibly linked to travel. At least one person had received a dose of a COVID-19 vaccine but officials did not have details about the vaccination status of the four other cases.In Minnesota, health officials said a man who had not traveled outside the U.S. began experiencing symptoms the day after attending the Anime NYC 2021 convention in New York City. Minnesota Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm said it’s likely the man contracted COVID-19 at the convention, but officials did not know for sure.Officials in New York said they were working to trace attendees of the convention, which was held Nov. 19-21 and drew about 50,000 people, according to event organizers. Attendees were required to wear masks and show proof of having received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.It was held at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center as New York City prepared to host the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and braced for throngs of tourists to return after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-business-lifestyle-health-canada-75b91e1770dc99c3a9d682129e2e006c">U.S. opened up to vaccinated international travelers.</a>City Health Commissioner Dave Chokshi urged people who attended the event to get tested.“This is not just due to people who are traveling to southern Africa or to other parts of the world where omicron has already been identified,” Chokshi said Thursday.The Minnesota man began experiencing mild symptoms Nov. 22. He had been vaccinated and received a booster shot in early November, according to health officials in his home state. He sought COVID-19 testing Nov. 24, and his symptoms have subsided, officials said.Nov. 22 was the same day the person infected in the first California case returned to the U.S. from South Africa.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-science-lifestyle-health-travel-1f007a419afc45c840ad1d8d80eede8f">The California traveler, who was vaccinated,&nbsp;</a>developed mild symptoms and tested positive Monday. The second person in the state didn’t need medical care and was also vaccinated.The unvaccinated adult infected with the variant in Hawaii had gotten COVID-19 a year ago. The person isn’t currently hospitalized and had “mild-to-moderate” symptoms including headache, body aches and cough, Hawaii Epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Kemble said.She wouldn’t identify the patient other to say the person lives on the island of Oahu.Omicron is classified by the World Health Organization as a “variant of concern” as scientists work to determine how it may compare with the predominant delta variant in terms of transmissibility and severity. Scientists also are studying the degree to which existing vaccines and therapies protect against omicron.Scientists in South Africa first reported it, but the samples came from several countries in southern Africa. And health officials in the Netherlands now say it was found there prior to the South Africa detection.As comfort over air travel returns, it’s inevitable that new variants like omicron will spread from country to country and state to state, said professor Danielle Ompad, an epidemiologist at New York University’s School of Global Public Health.“We shouldn’t panic, but we should be concerned,” she said.Hochul said the case involving the Minnesota visitor underlined the need for everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated against COVID-19 or receive a booster shot if they have not already.“There is one way to address this — New Yorkers, get vaccinated, get boosted, and get ready,” the Democrat said.___

Omicron coronavirus variant found in multiple US states

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service, state tax agencies and the
 nation's tax industry today warned tax professionals that they face 
additional security risks from cybercriminals seeking to use the 
pandemic and phishing scams to steal sensitive client information.

The partners, working together as the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/security-summit">Security Summit</a>,
 urged tax pros to remain focused on security issues and ensure they 
follow important steps to safeguard their information, including using 
multi-factor authentication and using a Virtual Private Network to guard
 against data loss. And Summit partners continued to remind tax pros, 
both large and small, that they are required to have a security plan in 
place.

This is part of the National Tax Security Awareness Week. Now in its 
sixth year, the initiative aims to heighten awareness about identity 
theft and data security measures among taxpayers, businesses, and tax 
professionals. This effort is particularly important right now as the 
2022 tax filing season approaches, and identity thieves continue trying 
to steal sensitive data to file fraudulent tax returns.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service, state tax agencies and the
 nation's tax industry today warned tax professionals that they face 
additional security risks from cybercriminals seeking to use the 
pandemic and phishing scams to steal sensitive client information.The partners, working together as the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/security-summit">Security Summit</a>,
 urged tax pros to remain focused on security issues and ensure they 
follow important steps to safeguard their information, including using 
multi-factor authentication and using a Virtual Private Network to guard
 against data loss. And Summit partners continued to remind tax pros, 
both large and small, that they are required to have a security plan in 
place.This is part of the National Tax Security Awareness Week. Now in its 
sixth year, the initiative aims to heighten awareness about identity 
theft and data security measures among taxpayers, businesses, and tax 
professionals. This effort is particularly important right now as the 
2022 tax filing season approaches, and identity thieves continue trying 
to steal sensitive data to file fraudulent tax returns."We continue to see scams and security risks during this period 
targeting tax professionals and the sensitive information they hold," 
said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. "Identity thieves continue to evolve
 with the times and use the pandemic and other tricks to take advantage 
of tax pros and gain access to their data. We continue to urge tax 
preparers to remain aware of this changing threat. Taking important 
security steps can help avoid a security breach that can be devastating 
to them and their clients."As the IRS and Security Summit partners took important steps to 
strengthen defenses against cybercriminals, identity thieves 
increasingly turned to tax professionals, targeting their offices and 
systems. Data thefts from tax professionals can provide valuable 
information to thieves trying to file fraudulent tax returns.The Summit partners remind tax professionals to review their security measures. IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p4557.pdf">Publication 4557, Safeguarding Taxpayer Data</a>&nbsp;PDF, provides tax professionals with a starting point for basic steps to protect clients.The Security Summit also created the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/tax-security-20-the-taxes-security-together-checklist">"Taxes-Security-Together" Checklist</a>
 to help tax professionals identify the basic steps they should take. As
 more tax preparers work from home or remote locations because of 
COVID-19, these measures are even more critical for securing tax data.<h2>Basic protections - the "Security Six" measures</h2>These easy steps can make a big difference, both for tax pros and taxpayers:<ul>
 <li>Use anti-virus software and set it for automatic updates to keep
 systems secure. This includes all digital products, computers and 
mobile phones.</li><li>Use firewalls. Firewalls help shield computers from outside attacks
 but cannot protect systems in cases where users accidentally download 
malware, for example, from phishing email scams.</li><li>Use multi-factor authentication to protect all online accounts, 
especially tax products, cloud software providers, email providers and 
social media.</li><li>Back up sensitive files, especially client data, to secure external sources, such as external hard drive or cloud storage.</li><li>Encrypt data. Tax professionals should consider drive encryption products for full-drive encryption. This will encrypt all data.</li><li>Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) product. As more practitioners 
work remotely during the pandemic, a VPN is critical for secure 
connections.</li>
 </ul><h2>Use multi-factor authentication to protect tax accounts</h2>In 2021, all online tax preparation products for tax professionals 
included an option for using multi-factor authentication. The Security 
Summit urges all tax professionals to use this option as the 2022 filing
 season approaches.Practitioners can download to their mobile phones readily available 
authentication apps offered through Google Play or the Apple Store. 
These apps will generate a security code. Codes also may be sent to 
preparer's email or text, but the IRS notes those are not as secure as 
the authentication apps. Search for "Authentication apps" in a search 
engine to learn more.<h2>Use virtual private networks to protect remote sites</h2>A VPN provides a secure, encrypted tunnel to transmit data between a 
remote user via the Internet and the company network. As teleworking or 
working from home continues during COVID-19, VPNs are critical to 
protecting and securing internet connections.Failing to use VPNs can add risks to remote takeovers by 
cyberthieves, giving criminals access to the tax professional's entire 
office network simply by accessing an employee's remote internet.Tax professionals should seek out cybersecurity experts whenever 
possible. Practitioners can also search for "Best VPNs" to find a 
legitimate vendor, or major technology sites often provide lists of top 
services. Remember, never click on a "pop-up" ad that's marketing a 
security product. Those generally are scams.<h2>Avoid phishing scams, including attempts to gain EFINs</h2>Phishing emails generally have an urgent message, such as "your 
account password expired." They direct users to an official-looking link
 or attachment. But the link may take users to a fake site made to 
appear like a trusted source, where it requests a username and password.
 Or, the attachment may contain malware, which secretly downloads 
software that tracks keystrokes and allows thieves to eventually steal 
all the tax pro's passwords.Remember, scam emails can target tax pros by seeking EFIN 
information. One scam example says it's from "IRS Tax E-Filing" and 
carries the subject line "Verifying your EFIN before e-filing."The IRS warns tax pros not to take any of the steps outlined in these
 types of email, especially responding to the email. The body of the 
bogus email states:In order to help protect both you and your clients from 
unauthorized/fraudulent activities, the IRS requires that you verify all
 authorized e-file originators prior to transmitting returns through our
 system. That means we need your EFIN (e-file identification number) 
verification and Driver's license before you e-file.Please have a current PDF copy or 
image of your EFIN acceptance letter (5880C Letter dated within the last
 12 months) or a copy of your IRS EFIN Application Summary, found at 
your e-Services account at IRS.gov, and Front and Back of Driver's 
License emailed in order to complete the verification process. Email: 
(fake email address)If your EFIN is not verified by our system, your ability to e-file 
will be disabled until you provide documentation showing your 
credentials are in good standing to e-file with the IRS.© 2021 EFILE. All rights reserved. Trademarks2800 E. Commerce Center Place, Tucson, AZ 85706Tax professionals who received the scam should save the email as a file and then send it as an attachment to <a href="mailto:phishing@irs.gov">phishing@irs.gov</a>. They also should notify the <a href="http://www.ustreas.gov/tigta/">Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration</a> to report the IRS impersonation scam. Both TIGTA and the IRS Criminal Investigation division are aware of the scam.Like all phishing email scams, it attempts to bait the receiver to 
take action (opening a link or attachment) with a consequence for 
failing to do so (disabling the account). The links or attachment may be
 set up to steal information or to download malware onto the tax 
professional's computer.In this case, the tax preparers are being asked to email documents 
that would disclose their identities and EFINs to the thieves. The 
thieves can use this information to file fraudulent returns by 
impersonating the tax professional.Tax professionals also should be aware of other common phishing scams
 that seek EFINs, Preparer Tax Identification Numbers (PTINs) or 
e-Services usernames and passwords.Some thieves also pose as potential clients, an especially effective 
scam currently because there are so many remote transactions during the 
pandemic. The thief may interact repeatedly with a tax professional and 
then send an email with an attachment that claims to include their tax 
information.The attachment may contain malware that allows the thief to track 
keystrokes and eventually steal all passwords or take over control of 
the computer systems.Some phishing scams are ransomware schemes in which the thief gains 
control of the tax professionals' computer systems and holds the data 
hostage until a ransom is paid. The Federal Bureau of Investigation 
(FBI) has warned against paying a ransom because thieves often leave the
 data encrypted.<h2>The need for a security plan and data theft plan</h2>The IRS and Security Summit partners remind tax professionals that 
federal law requires them to have a written information security plan. 
In addition to the required information security plan, tax pros also 
should consider an emergency response plan should they experience a 
breach and data theft. This time-saving step should include contact 
information for the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/stakeholder-liaison-local-contacts">IRS Stakeholder Liaisons</a>, who are the first point of contact for data theft reporting to the IRS and to the states.IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5293.pdf">Publication 5293, Data Security Resource Guide for Tax Professionals</a>&nbsp;PDF, provides a compilation of data theft information available on IRS.gov, including the reporting processes.The IRS, state tax agencies, the private sector tax industry - 
including tax professionals - work in partnership as the Security Summit
 to help protect taxpayers from identity theft and refund fraud. This is
 the fourth in <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/national-tax-security-awareness-week-2021">a week-long series of tips</a> to raise awareness about identity theft.See <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/security-summit">IRS.gov/securitysummit</a> for more details. Also, check out the most recent A Closer Look column on <a href="https://www.irs.gov/about-irs/national-tax-security-awareness-week-tips-to-help-protect-taxpayers">National Tax Security Awareness Week</a>.