Stimulus Package Stimulates More Scams

Scammers are at it again, this time targeting taxpayers who fall for bogus websites or emails claiming they can get an economic stimulus refund by simply providing their bank account number for direct deposit, or by paying a small fee. Duped victims end up with a drained bank account.

The Federal Trade Commission warns that in other cases, victims are asked to provide personal information, which is then used to commit identity theft. In yet another version of this insidious stimulus scam, victims receive an email containing a link to a website for more information; when consumers click on the link, they unknowingly download malicious software that collects their personal information, enabling identity thieves to rip them off.

Please remember the government stimulus plan never requires you to pay for any credits or refunds to which you may be entitled. And in most cases, you needn’t do anything to receive the money, whether it’s increased unemployment benefits, the payroll tax credit, the $250 Social Security checks or the tax credits for new home or car buyers.

Be careful about unsolicited “helpful” emails, and use common sense in handling these overtures. Better yet, hit the “Delete” button on your keyboard for any emails from people you don’t know.

How easily do you think you could be conned by a bogus email or stimulus scam? Could it happen to you?

Tags: identity theft scams, stimulus, stimulus scam, stimulus scams

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