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Beware of This New Text Scam
Involving Stimulus Checks

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The tax industry, state tax agencies and the IRS are warning taxpayers about a new scam that criminals are using to try to trick people into disclosing their bank account information in order to receive an Economic Impact Payment, or as it’s commonly referred to, a stimulus check.

What’s the Scam?

In this new scam, criminals are texting individuals with a message reading:

“You have received a direct deposit of $1,200 from COVID-19 TREAS FUND. Further action is required to accept this payment into your account. Continue here to accept this payment …”

The message includes a link that directs victims to a fraudulent website that impersonates the IRS’ Get My Payment web page. From there, the fraudulent website prompts victims to enter both their personal and banking information in order to receive the stimulus check or direct deposit, granting the scammers access to such information.

What Should I Do if I Receive This Text?

If you receive a text similar to the one described above, do not click the link or provide any personal or financial information. The IRS and state tax agencies will never text you asking for bank account information or to discuss stimulus check deposits.

The IRS is asking those who receive this text scam to take a screenshot of the text message and email it to phishing@irs.gov with the following information included in the email:

  • Date, time and time zone that they received the text message
  • The number that appeared on their caller ID
  • The number that received the text message

By providing this information to the IRS, you can help them track this scam and protect others.

Jonesburg State Bank Recognizes World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

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JSB-ElderAbuse_Image_June16

Jonesburg, MO — Every Year, millions of seniors fall victim to financial fraud.

Studies
show elder financial abuse costs seniors approximately $2.9 billion each year. In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15, Jonesburg State Bank is urging older customers and their trusted caregivers to safeguard all personal information and stay alert to the common signs of financial abuse.

“Fraudsters often prey on seniors experiencing cognitive decline, limited mobility and other disabilities that require them to rely more heavily on others for help,” said Dan Robb, Pres/CEO. “Appointing someone you know and trust to handle your financial matters aids tremendously in the fight against these crimes.”

Jonesburg State Bank is offering the following tips:

  • Plan ahead to protect your assets and to ensure your wishes are followed. Talk to someone at your financial institution, an attorney, or financial advisor about the best options for you.
  • Carefully choose a trustworthy person to act as your agent in all estate-planning matters.
  • Lock up your checkbook, account statements and other sensitive information when others will be in your home.
  • Never give personal information, including Social Security Number, account number, or other financial information to anyone over the phone unless you initiated the call and the other party is trusted.
  • Never pay a fee or taxes to collect sweepstakes or lottery “winnings.”
  • Never rush into a financial decision. Ask for details in writing and get a second opinion.
  • Consult with a financial advisor or attorney before signing any document you don’t understand.
  • Get to know your banker and build a relationship with the people who handle your finances. They can look out for any suspicious activity related to your account.
  • Check references and credentials before hiring anyone. Don’t allow workers to have access to information about your finances.
  • Pay with checks and credit cards instead of cash to keep a paper trail.
  • You have the right not to be threatened or intimidated. If you think someone close to you is trying to take control of your finances, call your local Adult Protective Services or tell someone at your bank.

If you believe you are a victim of financial abuse, be sure to:

  • Talk to a trusted family member who has your best interests at heart, or to your clergy.
  • Talk to your attorney, doctor, or an officer at your bank.
  • Contact Adult Protective Services in your state or your local police for help.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day was launched on June 15, 2006 by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations.

Jonesburg State Bank is a local community bank serving this area since 1921 with branches in Jonesburg and Warrenton.

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