The partial government shutdown has stretched into day 25, and for some furloughed workers, not getting a paycheck isn’t the only thing they need to worry about.
Scammers are targeting those affected in several ways, like showing up at their homes, offering to help with postal needs, websites offering money, asking for donations or a simple phone call.
Kelly Trevino with the Better Business Bureau says the post office is up and running during this time, and to be weary of crowd-funding.
“They look for little things like this, such as the government shutdown, to take advantage of people that are in situations like not getting that paycheck,” Trevino said.
The BBB has received several complaints from furloughed workers scammed during a time they need money the most, Trevino said.
The bureau also is looking for those affected to make sure they know that there are resources like the BBB available free of charge to help.
“A lot of people think the BBB is a government agency,” Trevino said. “We are not a government agency, we are open for business, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and take a look at the business that is contacting you.”
The BBB tracks businesses and you can check their ratings on their website. They also have a list of non-profits that are safe to donate to.
All of the information is available at www.BBB.org
