Take these simple steps to safeguard personal information from scammers. Being aware of warning signs can protect you, your accounts, and your economic impact payment.

Be Aware of Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Imposters

Be aware of IRS imposters posing as an IRS employee and requesting bank information or promising a faster payment, as this is most likely a scammer. Consumers who have not filed taxes in 2018 or 2019 should only update their personal or banking information by visiting the trusted IRS site: https://www.irs.gov/.  Select the “Non-filers: Enter Payment Info Here” section. 

Be Aware of  Suspicious Phrases

The IRS is using the official term of “economic impact payment” and not referring to these payments as a “stimulus payment” or “stimulus check.” If you are contacted by a person using these phrases, it may be a clue that a fraudster is trying to get your personal or bank information.

Be Aware of Phony Checks and Correspondence in the Mail

Use caution when you receive a check in the mail as scammers will send out fake checks. These fake checks and correspondence will require the payee to verify personal information in order to cash it. The only mail correspondence you should receive will come directly from the IRS in the form of a letter with information on how the economic payment was made and how to report any failure to receive the payment. The IRS will not require any verification of personal information for either check cashing or correspondence. According to the IRS, most consumers do not need to take any action to receive their economic impact payment.

Be Aware of Phishing Emails or Texts

A FirstBank or an IRS employee will not contact you for any personal or bank information regarding the economic impact payment. 

According to the IRS, most consumers do not need to take any action to receive their economic impact payment. If you receive a phone call or text from someone claiming to be from your bank or a government agency asking to verify your personal information, hang up immediately. If you shared information by phone, email or text, contact FirstBank immediately at 1-800-964-3444 for assistance.

Be Aware of Elder Abuse

Exploiters and abusers are often very skilled and can be very charming and forceful in their efforts to convince you to share your personal or banking information. You have the right to not be threatened or intimidated. Trusting your instincts is your first line of defense when protecting your personal and bank information. If you feel like you are a victim of financial abuse contact a trusted family member, a FirstBank Officer or bank personnel, the Adult Protective Services (APS) Hotline or local police for help.

Colorado APS Hotline 1-800-339-4661, Arizona APS Hotline 1-800-240-2014, California APS Hotline 1-833-401-0832.