Stimulus Check Scams; Don't Become A Victim: St. Pete Police

ST. PETERSBURG, FL — St. Pete police are warning locals about stimulus check scams, and are giving tips on how to avoid becoming a victim.

Below are the stimulus check scams investigators said to watch out for:

Email, Text Messages, Social Media:

Scammers are communicating through emails and text messages identifying themselves as government officials, investigators said. The email will direct you to click on a link to "verify" information, or the text message will provide a link to an application that says you must fill out to receive you check.

According to law-enforcement officials, avoid clicking any links that are emailed or texted to you. The government already has your information and your check will be either directly deposited or mailed to you.

Scammers are also using social media messages to inquire about the status of your stimulus check. A Patch reporter was sent this message by a random person on Facebook March 5, and after the message was ignored, the person tried again on March 15. Don't fall for this. Ignore and block them.

Robocall Check Scams:

The scammers will call you and identify themselves as the IRS, according to detectives. They will then ask for your personal information. They might say that the reason they need your personal information is to deposit the stimulus check into your account, and also ask for you to pay a fee to deposit the check.

The government already has your personal information on file from when you filed your taxes. Hang up immediately if they call you.

Fake Checks

A scammer might call you after you deposit your check in your bank account, and claim that you were overpaid. They'll ask you to return the overpaid funds. Authorities said when the bank determines the check is fake, you will already be out of money you "sent back."

Investigators advise to ask your bank to verify that the check is legitimate. Contact your bank immediately if you get a phone from someone asking for money back.