Shaler Township Police would like to warn our residents that unfortunately during a worldwide medical and economic crisis, we have numerous Coronavirus Scams being perpetrated throughout our region and the United States.
* Do not pay anyone who promises that they can expedite your stimulus check or obtain a loan for you against your stimulus check. If you are eligible for stimulus check, you will not need to make any up-front payments or pay any fee to receive payment.
* Phishing scams are asking for the victim’s bank account information to directly deposit the stimulus check into their account.
* COVID-19 testing kits, these calls include requests for personal information such as Social Security numbers, bank or credit card information. People should avoid any solicitation regarding a COVID-19 test kit by anyone other than their physician.
* Suspicious mailings, In Florida residents are starting to receive envelopes that read “Time-Sensitive Fast-Tracked Open Immediately” on the top and on the bottom right ‘Important COVID-19 Economic Stimulus Document Enclosed.’ Inside a fake check with the line ‘Stimulus Relief Program’ printed on the top left corner and made out for more than $3,000.
* Coronavirus charities, scammers are now posing as charities in an attempt to steal your personal information and your money. If you receive suspicious texts or emails, make sure you research them before sending any donations or consider just deleting them. Make sure if you decide to donate go to a verified and trusted source. It could be a charity you have already donated to before, or a website you’ve thoroughly checked out.
* Most of all, do not open email attachments or click on any links from senders you do not recognize.
Please spread the word to loved ones as the elderly are typically the targets of these scams.
Here’s what you need to know-
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (C.A.R.E.S. ACT) includes cash payments to many Americans affected by the national epidemic. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will deposit your funds into the direct deposit account you previously provided on your tax return to the IRS or, in the alternative, they will send you a paper check in the mail. No one from the IRS will call and ask you to verify your payment details. Do not give out your bank account, debit account, or PayPal account information - even if someone claims it’s necessary to get your stimulus check.
Again, there is no sign-up required, and there is no need to call. See the IRS website for more information https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus