Scammers are preying on Iowans’ fears and finances as they try to capitalize on the COVID-19 pandemic, officials warn.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Iowa and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI) are warning taxpayers to be vigilant against fraud schemes related to COVID-19 economic impact payments.
According to officials, scammers may try to get you to sign over your check to them or use this as an opportunity to get you to ‘verify’ your filing information in order to receive your money, and then use your personal information at a later date to file false tax returns in an identity theft scheme.
‘The existence of a deadly national pandemic will not stop criminals seeking to capitalize on the fears and difficulties faced by the public as they try to line their own pockets by stealing your money or your personal information,’ warned Karl Stiften, Special Agent in Charge of the IRS-CI St. Louis Field Office.
The IRS will deposit your check into the direct deposit account you previously provided on your tax return (or, in the alternative, send you a paper check).
The IRS will not call and ask you to verify your payment details. Do not give out your bank account or any other account information – even if someone claims it’s necessary to get your check.
‘In these uncertain and trying times, we need to stand together united with purpose. Don’t become a victim by allowing criminals to exploit your emotions. Stay strong, tell your family, friends and neighbors about these scams,’ urged United States Attorney Peter Deegan.
‘We remain committed to protecting our communities from fraud during this pandemic,’ said United States Attorney Deegan. ‘As we commemorate National Crime Victims Week, it is important for everyone to remain vigilant and prevent these crimes from occurring. Protect yourself and your loved ones, especially the most vulnerable among us, by reporting any suspected fraud related to COVID-19 or economic impact payments to the IRS or the National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via email at disaster@leo.gov.
‘Remember, go directly and solely to IRS.gov for official information,’ added Special Agent in Charge Stiften.
For more information, visit the IRS website.
Related Federal Cases
- Juan Bautista-Rubio, Aggravated Identity Theft, IA, 2014 · Pennsylvania
- Ronald Dwaine Carnes, Identity Theft and Firearm Possession, Waterl… · Pennsylvania
- Juan Bautista-Rubio, Aggravated Identity Theft, IA, 2023 · Washington
- Ronald Dwaine Carnes, Social Security Fraud and Identity Theft, Wat… · Pennsylvania
- Terry L. Gantt, Wire Fraud and Aggravated Identity Theft, Cedar Rap… · Pennsylvania
Key Facts
- State: Iowa
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News