Press Release Dated: Thursday, April 2, 2020 | According to United States Attorney, Thomas T. Cullen, “We have seen over the past few weeks, the worst among us finding new ways to exploit a global pandemic and prey upon the vulnerable. Americans need to be extremely vigilant in protecting their personal, financial, and tax information. Assume all unsolicited phone calls and emails regarding IRS or COVID-19 refunds are potentially fraudulent. Do not respond and report them to law enforcement.”

Tips to Help you Spot a Scam

• The IRS will deposit your payment into the direct deposit account you previously provided on your tax return (or, in the alternative, send you a paper check).
• The IRS will NOT call and ask you to verify your payment details.  Do NOT give your bank account, debit account, or PayPal account information to anyone – even if someone claims it’s necessary to get your check.  It’s a scam.
• If you receive a call, do NOT engage with scammers, even if you want to tell them that you know it’s a scam.  Just hang up.
• If you receive texts or emails claiming that you can get your money faster by sending personal identifying information or clicking on links, delete these texts and emails.  Do NOT click on any links in those texts or emails.
• Reports are swirling about bogus checks. If you receive a “check” in the mail now, it’s a scam.  It will take the Treasury a few more weeks to mail out the COVID-19 economic impact payments. If you receive a “check” for an odd amount (especially one with cents), or a check that requires you to verify the check online or by calling a number, it’s a scam.
• Remember, the federal government will not ask you to pay anything up front to get a legitimate benefit. No fees. No charges. Anyone who asks for an up-front payment for a promised benefit is a scammer.