Beware of Fake Census Agents

My2020Census Gov Scam: How It Works

Beware of a new Census fraud in the United States called Mycensus2020 Gov Scam. Be also careful of the fake census agents going around, both in neighborhoods and online. Let's explain.

The new census in the United States is on, while Canada, UK and Australia have theirs scheduled for 2021. In the United States, the event takes place every 10 years, so many people are excited to find out the new numbers after April this year. However, crooks came into the game as well. Both online and on the streets. How does the scam work?

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Watch the video below to see the My2020 Census Gov Scam exposed:

2020 Census Scam Video

There have been reports that several fake census websites with Government logos popped up online, asking for pre-registration and personal information, in anticipation for the event. Also, unsolicited fake letters come to the mail – and they appear very official, so beware. How do they look like?

On the other hand, as we are approaching April, beware of questionable people walking around the neighborhoods pretending to be Government agents making the count. Carrying a bunch of papers and fake badges, they get the victims' trust, especially since they are expected to show up.

They will ask you to give your full personal information (including Social Security or Insurance Number), which is never required for a census count.

2020 Census Scam: How To Avoid

When you know there is going to be a census, find out exactly how it is being conducted. Here are the official links for the United States, Canada, UK and Australia.

If “census officers” turn up at your door, inspect their ID properly – don't let them just flash it at you from far away. If you are still doubtful, ask them to wait while you telephone the Census Office to check they were due in your area that day. And if they ask for your Insurance or Social Security Number, phone the police.

Here is what the official Census government website has to say about the fraud that's going around:

 

“During the 2020 Census, the Census Bureau will never ask for your Social Security number, your bank account or credit card numbers, anything on behalf of a political party, or money or donations.”

“In addition, the Census Bureau will not contact you on behalf of a political party.”

“The Census Bureau will not send unsolicited emails to request your participation in the 2020 Census. However, the Census Bureau may contact you via email to request your participation in other ongoing surveys: If you have been selected to participate in the Household Pulse Survey, you will be contacted by [email protected] or by text message from 39242. If you have been selected to participate in the Small Business Pulse Survey, you will be contacted by [email protected]. If you have previously opted in to participate in Census Bureau research studies, you may be contacted by [email protected].”

The website also suggests that “If someone visits your home to collect a response for the 2020 Census, you can do the following to verify their identity: First, check to make sure that they have a valid ID badge, with their photograph, a U.S. Department of Commerce watermark, and an expiration date. If you still have questions about their identity, you can call 844-330-2020 to speak with a Census Bureau representative.”

 

My2020Census Gov  Scam: How To Report

Warn your family and friends about the My2020Census Gov Scam by sharing it on social media using the buttons provided. You can also officially report the scammers to the Federal Trade Commission using the link below:

Report To The FTC Here

 

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