Beware of Scammers Preying on Government Shutdown Fears

As the federal government shutdown stretches into its second month and more social benefit programs are disrupted, scammers are seizing the opportunity to exploit consumers’ uncertainty and fear. State attorneys general, banks, and media outlets are already warning of an uptick in fraud targeting beneficiaries of federal programs. 

Scammers never miss a crisis. Millions of Americans are facing delays or confusion about healthcare, food assistance, and other federal programs. That anxiety makes people more vulnerable to high-pressure tactics from criminals looking to steal money or personal information. 

During previous shutdowns, fraudsters have impersonated government agencies such as Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). They may claim your benefits are at risk and demand payment or personal information to “keep your account active.” Don’t fall for it—these threats are lies. 

The facts: 

• Government representatives will never demand payment or personal information to maintain your benefits. 

• The shutdown does not affect Social Security payments. 

• No legitimate official will ask for payment through cryptocurrency, gift cards, peer-to-peer payment apps, or wire transfers. 

Protect yourself from shutdown-related scams: 

• Don’t share your bank account, Social Security number, or other sensitive information with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly. 

• Hang up and verify. If you’re unsure, contact the agency directly using the number on its official .gov website. 

• Ignore pressure tactics. No government agency or law enforcement officer will threaten arrest or fines over the phone or via text. 

• Check email addresses. Legitimate agencies use addresses ending in .gov. 

• Be wary of “relief loans.” Some predatory lenders use crises like this to target struggling consumers. 

• Talk it out. Get advice from a trusted friend or family member before taking action on any suspicious offer. 

Reporting Scams  

If you suspect you’ve encountered a scam, file a complaint at Fraud.org. We will share your complaint with our network of consumer protection agencies and law enforcement partners.