The Latest Scams Circulating the Consumer World. Be warned. Be informed.
April 2008
Government Rebate Checks
Everyone has been buzzing about the rebate checks coming from the government. "What are you going to do with your rebate check?" Before you answer that question, read on to find out how con-artists have been using the rebate check to rip people off.
The Pitch
"Update your account information now or else you won't get your rebate check from us."
The Scam
"Us" being the IRS. However, always keep in mind, that the IRS doesn't ever call people to verify their account information. Scammers have been calling people up and pretending to be from the IRS. They're asking for personal banking information and claiming that you won't receive the rebate until they confirm your checking account number.
Once the scammers have your information, they monitor your account and figure out when your balance is at its highest every month. Their next step is to make an electronic draft withdrawal from your account because this type of financial transaction is very difficult for your bank to monitor and track down the originator. Without any warning, your money is gone!
Play it Safe
- If you think you've already been scammed, call you bank immediately.
- Close your checking account and open a new one at the same bank or move to another bank or credit union.
- Never reveal your checking account number over the phone to anyone.
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