A Warning about COVID-19 Scams


          Criminals will take every opportunity to defraud unsuspecting individuals, especially those who are in need. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is warning Taxpayers to be ready for a surge of phone calls, emails, and text messages related to the recently passed economic stimulus package. The goal of those behind these messages and fake websites is to commit tax fraud and identity theft. Extra precautions need to be taken.
          One group in particular that is the focus of many attacks are the elderly and Senior Citizens. Often they fall prey to those who seem to be official and sound like they have their best interest at heart. Please remember that there is no fee to get the stimulus check. They will start to be sent by direct deposit in mid-April and will continue by check for weeks after that. The IRS will not call to collect your banking information. Seniors who collect Social Security and do not need to file a Tax Return will not have to file anything else with the IRS to receive their money. Remember that the official term is really Economic Impact Payment.

           The IRS will never call to collect personal information from you. Do not sign over your check to anyone. There is no one who can speed up this process on your behalf. You will not be mailed a check and then asked to call a number before you can deposit it. If it sounds too good to be true, it always is. Be safe and keep vigilant.

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