Watch Out for Scammers Conning the Public with Fake Stimulus Checks

If you receive an offer from someone who wants to send you federal “stimulus check” money by check or direct deposit, ignore it. It’s a scam!

In the stimulus check scam, con artists target their victims with the promise of sending a quick stimulus check disbursement.

Crooks ask for an upfront payment to receive the aid or for your Social Security number, bank account or credit card details.

In addition, fraudsters also are impersonating retailers by sending fake texts or social media posts to offer stimulus checks. The messages contain a malicious link that could steal your information.

TIPS:

• The government will not ask you to pay a fee to receive aid.
• You will not be asked for your Social Security number, bank account or credit card information.
• If you suspect fraudulent activity, contact the Federal Trade Commission at www.ftc.gov/complaint.

For a printable version of this fraud alert, click here.

Follow @LADAOffice on Twitter and Instagram for up-to-date news and use #FraudFriday.

About the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office

Los Angeles County District Attorney Jackie Lacey leads the largest local prosecutorial office in the nation. Her staff of nearly 1,000 attorneys, 300 investigators and 800 support staff members is dedicated to protecting our community through the fair and ethical pursuit of justice and the safeguarding of crime victims’ rights. https://da.lacounty.gov/