The COVID-19 outbreak has ignited a frenzy of scamming attempts as about 90% of Americans are ordered to stay at home and are navigating how to work remotely and keep themselves and their loved ones safe. Our recent bulletin discussed attempts bad actors are using to try to steal personal information through email phishing attacks and ransomware, as well as efforts to ransack bank accounts through donations to fake charities and orders for goods that never arrive. Government officials warn that the scams will not stop there. To be sure, during any year these tactics are often seen during tax season when taxpayers are receiving their refund from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). These scams can also be aimed towards tax professionals and payroll and human resources departments. This year, with the CARES Act authorizing $1,200 stimulus checks to many Americans, scammers will be searching for opportunities to cash in.
COVID-19 Bulletin: Avoiding Stimulus Check Scams as CARES Kicks In
