Be careful answering calls about an unclaimed relief check.
According to the Better Business Bureau, there is “a new phishing phone scam where callers claim you have an unclaimed ‘relief check’ waiting. In order to claim your check, you have to visit a website to collect it. The message sounds official, but it is a trick to steal your personal and financial information.
Over 800 individuals in the U.S. have reported the scam, with three from Connecticut this week, according to the Better Business Bureau.
“One person shared the message they received,” according to the Better Business Bureau. “’Hey, it’s Dan from www.myreliefcheck.com. Our records show you may have $5,286 waiting in a relief check that’s already been issued in your name, but has not yet been collected. This could be from past relief programs or federal assistance payments. visit www.myreliefcheck.com. Search your name and collect it before it’s returned.’”
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Curious how the scam works? Here is the full breakdown, according to the Better Business Bureau:
“You receive a call, voicemail, or text saying you qualify for an unclaimed relief payment. You’re directed to a website that warns you to act quickly before the money is returned. But the site doesn’t lead to real government assistance. Instead, it redirects you to a page called, “My Cash Search.” On that page, you’re asked to enter personal details such as your ZIP code, phone number, email, and home address. After that, you’re pushed to redeem offers that lead to outside sites. This setup allows scammers to collect your information, flood you with spam, and trick you into signing up for unwanted services or charges. Some sites may also install harmful software on your device.
“By handing over this data, victims risk identity theft, drained bank accounts, and nonstop contact from scammers. Many reports also mention follow-up calls, texts, or emails trying to get even more money or information.”
Check out these tips from the Better Business Bureau to avoid the scam:
- Hang up and don’t engage: Government agencies will not call and tell you to visit a random website to claim money.
- Verify with official sources and avoid unfamiliar websites: If you receive a call about unclaimed money, contact the government agency directly using contact information from its official website. Do not click on links or visit sites given by the caller.
- Never share personal or financial information with strangers: Do not give out Social Security numbers, banking information, ID numbers, or addresses.
- Watch for urgent language: Phrases like “act now” or “before it’s returned” are red flags.
- Call your bank if you shared payment details: They can help you freeze accounts and look for suspicious activity.
- Keep a record: Save any texts, emails, or call details to share with investigators and your bank.
Readers can report scams to the Better Business Bureau Scam Tracker at bbb.org/scamtracker.
