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The FBI has developed a tri-fold brochure, outlining common fraud scams and simple steps to protect against elder fraud.

Know the signs of identity theft

Taxpayers do not need to file a Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit, with the IRS regarding an incorrect Form 1099-G. The identity theft affidavit should be filed only if the taxpayer's e-filed return is rejected because a return using the same Social Security number already has been filed.

See Identity Theft Central for more information about the signs of identity theft and general steps that should be taken.

Additionally, if taxpayers are concerned that their personal information has been stolen and they want to protect their identity when filing their federal tax return, they can request an Identity Protection Pin (IP PIN) from the IRS.

An Identity Protection PIN is a six-digit number that prevents someone else from filing a tax return using a taxpayer's Social Security number. The IP PIN is known only to the taxpayer and the IRS, and this step helps the IRS verify the taxpayer's identity when they file their electronic or paper tax return.

FDIC: Insured Bank Deposits are Safe

Beware of potential scams using the FDIC's name!

In light of recent developments related to the coronavirus, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) is reminding Americans that FDIC-insured banks remain the safest place to keep their money. The FDIC is also warning consumers of recent scams where imposters are pretending to be agency representatives to perpetuate fraudulent schemes.

During these unprecedented times, consumers may receive false information regarding the security of their deposits or their ability to access cash. The FDIC does not send unsolicited correspondence asking for money or sensitive personal information. The agency will never contact people asking for personal details, such as bank account information, credit and debit card numbers, Social Security numbers or passwords.

Consumers may also be contacted by persons who claim to be employed by an agency, bank, or another entity. These scams may involve a variety of communication channels, including emails, phone calls, letters, text messages, faxes, and social media. Scammers might also ask for personal information such as bank account numbers, Social Security numbers, dates of birth, and other details that can be used to commit fraud or sell a person's identity.

Consumers are also encouraged to contact the FDIC's Call Center at 1-877-ASK-FDIC (1-877-275-3342), Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (ET) if they have any questions or believe they have been a victim of fraud or a scam.

Are you a victim of Identity Theft?

The FTC has a useful ID Theft Recovery Plan with steps to follow, located here.

CONSUMER REPORTING AGENCIES

Experian®
P.O. Box 9554
Allen, TX 75013 
888-397-3742
www.experian.com

TransUnion®
P.O. Box 2000
Chester, PA 19016
800-680-7289
www.transunion.com

Equifax®
P.O. Box 740241
Atlanta, GA 30374
800-349-5191
www.equifax.com

You should also contact the credit reporting agencies to notify them of any suspected fraud or identity theft. Equifax has established a dedicated toll-free number to answer questions you may have about the Equifax data breach and its effect on your personally identifiable information. You may call them at 866-447-7559.

If you believe you are the victim of identity theft, contact your local law enforcement office and/or your state attorney general. Finally, you may also want to consider reviewing information about recovering from identity theft, which is available from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at https://www.identitytheft.gov/ or by calling 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338). The FTC also offers general information to protect your online presence at https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/topics/privacy-identity-online-security.

Common Types of Scams and Fraud & Classic Warning Signs

What are some common types of scams? The CFPB (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau) wants you to know!

 What are some classic warning signs of possible fraud and scams?

There are several signs that indicate you might be dealing with a scammer.

They include contact from someone:

• Calling or emailing you, claiming to be from the government and asking you to pay money.
• Asking you to pay money or taxes upfront to receive a prize or a gift. 
• Asking you to wire them money, send money by courier, or put money on a prepaid card or gift card and send it to them.
• Asking for access to your money-such as your ATM cards, bank accounts, credit cards, or investment accounts.
• Pressuring you to "act now" or else the deal will go away. Or someone who seems to be trying hard to give you a "great deal" without time to answer your questions.  

To report a scam, you can submit a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. You can also contact your local police or sheriff's office or your state attorney general's office to report the scam. Visit the National Association of Attorneys General for the contact information of each state attorney general.

Tip: Remember that if something doesn't seem right, you can always hang up or walk away. Scammers often want you to make a quick decision without thinking about it. Slow down, do your own research about the offer or consult with someone you trust. 

How to be Safer When Using a Smartphone or Tablet

Everywhere you look, people are using smartphones and tablets as portable, hand-held computers. "Unfortunately, cybercriminals are also interested in using or accessing these devices to steal information or commit other crimes," said Michael Benardo, manager of the FDIC's Cyber Fraud and Financial Crimes Section. "That makes it essential for users of mobile devices to take measures to secure them, just as they would a desktop computer."

Here are some basic steps you can take to secure your mobile devices.

Avoid apps that may contain malware.

Buy or download from well-known app stores, such as those established by your phone manufacturer or cellular service provider. Consult your financial institution's website to confirm where to download its official app for mobile banking.

Keep your device's operating system and apps updated.

Consider opting for automatic updates because doing so will ensure that you have the latest fixes for any security weaknesses the manufacturer discovers. "Cybercriminals try to take advantage of known flaws, so keeping your software up to date will help reduce your vulnerability to foul play," said Robert Brown, a senior ombudsman specialist at the FDIC.

Consider using mobile security software and apps to protect your device.

For example, anti-malware software for smartphones and tablets can be purchased from a reputable vendor.

Use a password or other security feature to restrict access in case your device is lost or stolen.

Activate the "time out" or "auto lock" feature that secures your mobile device when it is left unused for a certain number of minutes. Set that security feature to start after a relatively brief period of inactivity. Doing so reduces the likelihood that a thief will be able to use your phone or tablet.

Back up data on your smartphone or tablet.

This is good to do in case your device is lost, stolen or just stops working one day. Data can easily be backed up to a computer or to a back-up service, which may be offered by your mobile carrier.

Have the ability to remotely remove data from your device if it is lost or stolen.

A "remote wipe" protects data from prying eyes. If the device has been backed up, the information can be restored on a replacement device or the original (if you get it back). A number of reputable apps can enable remote wiping.