Warning: Stimulus cash scam targets Floridians

Florida Today • March 10, 2009

TALLAHASSEE - Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Charles Bronson warned today about scams involving federal government stimulus dollars.

Numerous scams have surfaced in Florida, attempting identity theft and seeking an "advance fee" payment.

Consumers are being spammed with e-mails promising stimulus money grants or offering to help them qualify for stimulus funds.

One e-mail claims, "Congratulations! You've been selected to receive a FREE Stimulus Check in the amount of $613.27!"

Consumers then are asked to provide their bank account numbers and other personal information in order for the money to be deposited into their accounts.

Instead, con artists drain their accounts or steal their identities. In some cases consumers are told they must pay an advance fee for a grant or that they can obtain a list of economic stimulus grants for a fee.

The email requires the consumer to send a cashier's check or requests the consumer's credit card information.

"They should just delete these emails as quickly as possible and understand that the federal government is not providing stimulus money over the Internet," Bronson said.

The government does not charge people to apply for grants, he said, and information about grant programs is provided for free.

Anyone who thinks they may have already been victimized should report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission.

Complaints can be filed in English and Spanish online at http://www.FTC.gov or by calling 877-382-4357.