The United States government is working on a package that would send cash to each American, as a stimulus package for our economy.  Nothing is set in stone yet, but there have already been scammers tricking people into giving out their private, personal information.

 

Remember: Anyone who asks for sensitive information such as your social security number to receive a government stimulus check is a scammer.

 

The FTC lists three important tips to safeguard yourself from scams:

  1. The government will not ask you to pay anything up front to get this money. No fees. No charges. No nothing.
  2. The government will not call to ask for your Social Security number, bank account, or credit card number. Anyone who does is a scammer.
  3. These reports of checks aren’t yet a reality. Anyone who tells you they can get you the money now is a scammer.

Here are some other tips from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to help you keep the scammers at bay:

  • Don’t click on links from sources you don’t know. They could download computer viruses onto your computer or device.
  • Watch for emails claiming to be from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or experts saying they have information about the virus. For the most up-to-date information about the Coronavirus, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
  • Ignore online offers for vaccinations. There currently are no vaccines, pills, potions, lotions, lozenges or other prescription or over-the-counter products available to treat or cure Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) — online or in stores.
  • Do your homework when it comes to donations, whether through charities or crowdfunding sites. Don’t let anyone rush you into making a donation. If someone wants donations in cash, by gift card, or by wiring money, don’t do it.”

Helpful links:

Stay Connected with FTC Updates and Media Channels:

https://www.ftc.gov/stay-connected

FTC Complaint Assistant:

https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/#crnt&panel1-1