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In this case, you’ll receive an official-looking e-mail saying you didn’t fill out the Census survey correctly and asking for your Social Security number or bank account information or computer user names and passwords, says Kresse. “E-mail is relatively anonymous and the dishonest can contact several hundred thousand people simultaneously,” Kresse says. You can’t file online and no one should receive official e-mails for the 2010 survey. Eun Kim, spokeswoman for the U.S. Census Bureau, says if you do, don’t respond. Fake Census survey
Visit the U.S. Census Bureau Web site and compare your survey with . If your survey doesn’t match the 2010 Census survey, toss it, says Kresse. The phony Census call
In addition, fraudsters now have devices that can make caller ID come up “US Census” or a similar identifier, Kresse says. That would make the call that much more credible. Don’t give out financial information over the phone. “Consider it a big, bright red flag if someone says they represent the Census and asks you for ,” says Southwick. A Census visit in person
In this type of scam, someone knocks on your door, states he is a Census worker and asks you for money to pay for the 2010 Census, says Kresse. To make sure you’re talking to a Census worker, ask to see his official government badge with his name and a Department of Commerce watermark. Then, ask for a second picture ID for confirmation, the Census Web site says. If you’re still not sure, there are to confirm that the visit is legitimate. Be aware, it may not be a con artist who wants your money. “There will be rogue Census workers who will use their position to ask for your Social Security number or a fee,” Kresse says. Although the Census Bureau does background checks, these workers are likely new to the scam game and have no record. A Census worker who comes to your door will only ask you the same questions that are on the survey. “If you’re suspicious or don’t feel safe, close the door and call the Census phone number to verify that person is an actual Census worker,” says Kim. Kim says the best way to avoid problems is to educate yourself about the process by checking out the Census Bureau Web site and to mail back your 10-question survey as soon as possible. “Our site has and the questions we are asking, plus a link to questions you may have,” Kim says. Related Links: Drunk driving could cost $20,000 Related Articles: 5 scams in the recession SHARE: Heather Larson Related Articles