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:
- The government will not ask you to pay anything up front to get this money. No fees. No charges. No nothing.
- The government will not call to ask for your Social Security number, bank account, or credit card number. Anyone who does is a scammer.
- 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