If you get a call, email, text or social media message saying the Internal Revenue Service needs money or some personal information before sending your income-tax refund or stimulus payment, DON’T RESPOND!!!!  IT’S A SCAM!! 

The IRS and the criminal investigation division have seen a wave of new schemes.  Criminals are trying to scam Americans by using the stimulus checks as a way to gain access to their personal information.

Some ways you know you are being scammed.

-First things first…the IRS will NEVER call or email you

-The caller or emailer uses the words “stimulus check” or “stimulus payment.” The term that government officials are using is “economic-impact payment.”

-You’re asked to sign your check over to the caller.

-You receive an email, text or social media message saying that you need to verify your personal and/or banking information to speed up your stimulus payment.

-The individual offers to get you your payment faster.

-You receive a fake check, and then the sender tells you to call a number to verify your personal information in order to cash it.

Other people having fun with scammers!  These are the best!

Be safe out there and stay healthy!