You’ve heard about scammers who pose as government workers, calling to demand your money or information. But imposters are running scams by mail too. They’re sending fake forms and letters from made-up agencies demanding payment or personal information ASAP. Here’s what to know and do if you get a letter like this. The fake government letters have agency names that include words like United States, Social Security, business regulation, tax enforcement, and trademark to make them seem legitimate. The letters lie to you, saying it’s time to register or renew a license or trademark, pay a fee or fine, or claiming there is a problem with your Social Security account. Then they send you to a website that asks for your license, Social Security, EIN, and credit card numbers. Usually, the letters warn about fines if you don’t respond fast. GOVERNMENT IMPERSONATORS If you get a letter that looks like it’s from the government and demands money or information, STOP. It could be a scam. Before you do anything: • Find out if the agency is real before you respond. Go to USA.gov to verify the names and contact information of federal, state, and local, government agencies. Don’t use any websites or phone numbers listed in the letter. • Don’t wire money or use gift cards, cryptocurrency, or a payment app to pay someone who says they’re with the government. Scammers insist you can only pay these ways because it’s hard to track that money, and just as hard to get it back. They’ll take your money and disappear. • Don’t give your financial or personal information to someone who calls, texts, emails, or messages you on social media and says they’re with the government. If you think a call or message could be real, stop. Hang up the phone and call the government agency directly at a number you know is correct. If the call is a robocall, don’t press any numbers. Pressing numbers could lead to more calls. • Don’t trust your caller ID. Your caller ID might show the government agency’s real phone number or name — like “Social Security Administration.” But caller ID can be faked. It could be anyone calling from anywhere in the world. • Don’t click on links in unexpected emails, texts, or social media messages. Scammers send emails and messages that look like they’re from a government agency but are designed to steal your money and personal information. Don’t click on any link, and don’t pass it on to others. Just delete the message. If you spot a scam like this, tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Find out what to do if you paid someone you think is a scammer, or if you gave a scammer your personal information.
DMCC is a 501 (c)3 nonprofit organization committed to educating consumers on financial issues and providing personal assistance to consumers who have become overextended with debt. Education is provided free of charge to consumers, as well as personal counseling to identify the best options for the repayment of their debt. To speak to a certified credit counselor, call toll-free 866-618-3328 or email contact@dmcconline.org.DMCC is located at 1330 SE 4th Ave, Suite F, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316.