Identity thieves and scams are increasing as desperation and financial struggles continue. Having billions of dollars in relief money sent out to Americans makes them a target for these corona-virus related scams. Being aware of what these fraudulent messages look like and knowing how to report them is key for all individuals and businesses.
The Federal Trade and Commission received nearly 2.2 million consumer fraud reports just last year. That number is up almost 27% from the year before.
In 2020, the FTC introduced ReportFraud.ftc.gov, a new platform to file fraud complaints. From the data collected, the FTC has received scams involving PPE (personal protective equipment) and the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Scammers have been posing as these programs to receive not only personal account information, but also business account information.
About $30.4 million was allocated to the FTC in the third round of stimulus payments to fight all scams, pre and post pandemic schemes.
For more information on staying ahead of these scams: https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2021/04/09/faq-covid-scams-ftc/
