Law enforcement agencies are warning locals about text and phone scams. Among the most recent shared comes from the Utah Department of Public Safety stating that the IRS will not call, email or text individuals asking for information as they process stimulus checks. Be alert for scammers texting or calling to verify Social Security Numbers and bank account information. Stay informed by visiting irs.gov/coronavirus. Another scam revived during the COVID-19 pandemic is the grandparent scam. The Federal Trade Commission warns of this highly manipulative scam during which a scammer poses as a panicked grandchild calling their grandma or grandpa urgently asking them to wire money immediately. “They’ll say they need cash to help with an emergency – like paying a hospital bill or needing to leave a foreign country,” shares the FTC. “They pull at your heartstrings so they can trick you into sending money before you realize it’s a scam. In these days of Coronavirus concerns, their lies can be particularly compelling. But we all need to save our money for the real family emergencies.” No matter how dramatic, resist the urge to act immediately and do not send cash, gift cards, or money transfers. Call a phone number for your family member that you know to be genuine and check the story out with your family circle. If you get a scam call, report it at ftc.gov/complaint.
