FBI Warns Of Direct Payment COVID-19 Scams

The FBI is warning people to watch for scams targeting federal stimulus payments tied to the coronavirus outbreak. Last week, the federal government passed legislation that would provide checks to most Americans for as much as $1,200.

Special Agent Douglas Kasper says to watch for phone calls, emails and texts asking for personal information needed to receive the money. He says these are not real.

“I would just tell people to keep their guard up,” Kasper says. “This is a very tricky time and unfortunately we have a lot of people that like to prey on vulnerable people during this crisis.”

Kasper says the government will not contact you before sending the relief check. He encourages people to also watch out for fraudulent calls about COVID-19 medications and fake relief charities.

The bureau says fraud can be reported at www.ic3.gov.

Contact Darian at dbenson@wfyi.org or follow her on Twitter at @helloimdarian.

This is a rapidly evolving story, and we are working hard to bring you the most up-to-date information. However, we recommend checking the websites of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the Indiana State Department of Health for the most recent numbers of COVID-19 cases.