Stimulus payments targeted by web spoof attacks
Monday, May 11, 2009
The Social Security Administration has received reports of phony websites set up by cybercriminals to lure people into divulging their personal data, in a type of phishing attack known as spoofing.
The SSA has been on alert for this type of scam as it distributes stimulus payments to recipients of Social Security payments or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, according to a report in the Wall Street Journal.
Under the economic stimulus plan, the administration authorized the release of $250 checks for the beneficiaries beginning in early May and continuing throughout the month. No action is required to get the payment, which will be sent separately from the recipient's regular monthly payment.
A spokesman for the SSA told the Journal that people should be suspicious of any emails or websites that tell them to enter personal information to receive their checks.
The Journal reported that state and federal agencies and the AARP are warning retirees to be wary of scams.
The federal government will issue checks for a total of roughly $13 billion in economic stimulus this month.
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