Scam artists won’t even rest during a global pandemic.
The Wisconsin Better Business Bureau is warning consumers about the latest scam, which takes advantage of the proposed stimulus package which would give money to most citizens amid a massive number of layoffs.
According to Lisa Schiller with the BBB, scammers will send a message or post on social media that you qualify for a special COVID-19 government grant. When you click on it, they ask for your information, and you never get a check.
Schiller offered a few tips to avoid being caught in this trap.
First, government agencies do not communicate through social media avenues like Facebook, so be wary of unsolicited messages.
Do not pay any money for a “free” government grant. If you have to pay money to claim a “free” government grant, it is not really free.
And finally, don’t assume an offer in a social media message is from a real friend. It’s easier for scammers to impersonate real people on social media. Call your friend to verify it was they contacted you.
For more information about the scam, visit BBB.org/Coronavirus.
