Scammers Exploit U.S. Government Shutdown: What You Need to Know
As the U.S. government shutdown continues, fraudsters are seizing the moment to target vulnerable consumers. With many federal employees facing financial uncertainty and delays in services, scammers are using fear and confusion to trick people into giving away personal banking details and sensitive information.
How the Scams Work
Fraudsters often impersonate government agencies or financial institutions, claiming to offer assistance, expedite benefits, or prevent account closures. Common tactics include:
- Phishing emails or texts pretending to be from the IRS, Social Security Administration, or banks.
- Fake websites mimicking official portals to collect login credentials.
- Phone calls threatening legal action or loss of benefits unless immediate payment or verification is provided.
These scams are designed to look and sound legitimate, making it easy for even cautious individuals to fall victim.
Tips to Protect Yourself
To stay safe during the shutdown—and at any time moving forward—follow these best practices:
1. Verify the source: Never click on links or download attachments from unsolicited messages. Go directly to official websites.
2. Don’t trust caller ID: Scammers can change caller ID to make it look like the call is coming from an official source.
3. Don’t share personal info: Government agencies and banks will never ask for your Social Security number, bank account details, or passwords via email or phone.
4. Use multi-factor authentication: Enable extra security on your bank and official accounts.
5. Monitor your accounts: Check your bank and credit reports regularly for suspicious activity.
6. Report scams: If you suspect fraud, contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your bank immediately.
Work Directly with Trusted Institutions
If you're affected by the shutdown, reach out to your bank or government agency directly. Many financial institutions are offering support programs to help customers navigate this difficult time.
Fulton Bank is offering dedicated assistance for those impacted by the government shutdown.
