With stimulus money beginning to be sent out, experts are warning people about those who might try to scam others by pretending to be someone with the IRS.
Here are four common red flags:
- Unsolicited calls or emails – government agencies “won’t call, text, email, or contact you on social media to ask for your Social Security, bank account or credit card number.
- Messages that ask to “verify” or provide information – The IRS will not call, text or email anyone to verify their information.
- High-pressure tactics -It’s usually a red flag if something needs to be done immediately or if there are threats that you’ll lose your stimulus payment if immediate action is not taken.
- There’s a fee involved – There’s no such thing as getting your money early, even by paying a fee.
To protect yourself, the Better Business Bureau recommends doing your research to make sure the check is real and double check if the government agency or organization issuing the payment actually exists.
