STATEHOUSE (May 1, 2020) – State Reps. Doug Miller (R-Elkhart) and Christy Stutzman (R-Middlebury) urges Hoosiers to be vigilant in protecting themselves against scams, which are surging during the public health pandemic.
According to Miller, it is important to stay informed and alert because fraudsters are using coronavirus-related fears to obtain personal and financial information from unsuspecting victims.
"Hoosiers are taking a closer look at their finances during these unprecedented times," Miller said. "Scammers are looking to take advantage of desperate people in need. Be careful with your personal information and do not provide it just anyone because they ask for it or offer to help."
According to the Federal Trade Commission, scammers are using text messages and robocalls to offer free home testing kits, promote fake cures and sell low-priced health insurance. Government imposter scams are also on the rise, including those targeting people on Medicare. If a caller claims to be a Medicare representative and asks to verify personal information like bank account, Social Security or Medicare numbers, Hoosiers should hang up.
Stutzman said criminals are also taking advantage of individuals who are expecting federal stimulus payments. Scammers will call, text and email asking for personal or bank account information in order to release funds. The IRS won’t contact individuals by phone, email, text message or social media with information about stimulus payments, or to ask for a Social Security number, bank account, or government benefits debit card account number.
"While the rise in these types of scams is concerning, Hoosiers can take steps to avoid becoming a victim," Stutzman said. "Always be cautious if you are contacted by someone asking for money, reach out to appropriate contacts like your bank or Medicare directly to verify certain claims and do research before making a final decisions."
To guard against coronavirus scams, Hoosiers are asked to follow these five tips provided by the FTC:
Hoosiers who believe they are a victim of a scam should contact law enforcement immediately. Report scams to the Indiana Attorney General’s office by visiting www.IndianaConsumer.com and the FTC by visiting ftc.gov/complaint.
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State Rep. Doug Miller (R-Elkhart) represents House District 48, which includes portions of Elkhart County.
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State Rep. Christy Stutzman (R-Middlebury) represents House District 49, which includes the eastern portion of Elkhart County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
