Financial Fraud Prevention

Emergency Broadband Program Impersonators

Have you seen ads on social media that offer to help you sign up for a government program that will give you a "free" device and internet service in exchange for money or personal information? While there is a real government program to help people connect during the pandemic, there's no payment required to enroll. That’s just a scam. Learn more

Beware of Fake Email from FTC About Coronavirus Money

Scammers are impersonating FTC Chair Lina Khan in a new phishing scheme. The email says the FTC wants to send you Coronavirus relief funds and tells you to send some personal information, like your name, address, and date of birth. The FTC is not distributing Coronavirus economic stimulus or relief money to people. The email is a scam. Don’t reply. Learn more

Website Aims to Prevent Ransomware Attacks

The U.S. Department of Justice has launched a new website to combat the threat of ransomware. StopRansomware.gov provides a one-stop hub of ransomware resources for individuals and businesses.

Ransomware is a long-standing problem and a growing national security threat. About $350 million in ransom was paid to malicious cyber actors in 2020, a more than 300% increase from the previous year. Further, there have already been multiple notable ransomware attacks in 2021, and despite making up roughly 75% of all ransomware cases, attacks on small businesses often go unnoticed.

Ignore Bogus COVID Vaccine Survey

People across the country are getting emails and texts, asking them to complete a survey about the Pfizer, Moderna or AstraZeneca vaccine. In exchange they are offered a "free reward," but asked to pay shipping fees. This is a scam to obtain your credit card or bank account information. No legitimate survey would ask for personal financial information to pay for a “free” reward.

Learn more from the Federal Trade Commission: Consumer Information