Apple Bank and the IRS share tips everyone should know
Fraudsters create new scams daily, and, sadly, the pandemic created more fraud opportunities through Economic Impact Payments, false vaccine information, and other COVID-19-related scams.
In a recent virtual seminar, Apple Bank, the Brooklyn Public Library and the IRS, Criminal Investigation Division, shared the latest financial scam trends and how elders can protect themselves.
Here are some highlights from the seminar. To read more and watch the full seminar, click here.
Be mindful of what you share on social media.
- Don’t post your vaccination card. Scammers could use that information to steal your identity.
- Ignore unsolicited COVID offers and claims. Beware of fraudsters who promise testing or vaccination appointments in exchange for your Medicaid and Medicare information. Remember: There is no cure for the COVID-19 virus. Anyone who claims to have one is a scammer.
- Look out for fraudsters in plain sight. It’s nice to be neighborly, but be cautious about allowing people you do not know well to run errands or perform financial tasks for you.
- Know the IRS will never threaten you or demand immediate payments. If the IRS does contact you, they will send multiple letters before calling or visiting your home.
IMPORTANT: You have the right to see their badge number and call the IRS at 1-800-366-4484 to verify the agent’s identity.