Your open door may offer a window of opportunity for Census scams
Originally published March 07, 2010
What the heck is the Census anyway and how will it affect you? The U.S. Census takes place once every 10 years and counts every resident in the United States. The Census is actually required by the Constitution.The 2010 Census helps determine how much of the federal "pie" your community will receive over the next decade. In fact, local communities receive more than $400 billion in federal funds each year for things like hospitals, job training centers, schools, senior centers, bridges, tunnels and other public works projects, and emergency services. The data collected by the Census also influences the number of seats Maryland and other states have in the U.S. House of Representatives. The Trap (or in this case, one of the traps) Maryland residents are now reporting receipt of an e-mail that claims to be from Better Business Bureau about the upcoming Census. BBB has not issued such an e-mail and residents should be aware that the Census will not send e-mail. Never click on a link or open attachments in an e-mail allegedly from the Census Bureau. Forward the e-mail or website URL to the Census Bureau at itso.fraud.reporting@census.gov. The Bottom Line This month, Census forms will be delivered to every residence in the United States and Puerto Rico. When you receive yours, just answer the 10 short questions and then mail the form back in the postage-paid envelope provided. If you don't mail the form back, you may receive a visit from a census taker. Census takers will go door-to-door April to July 2010, canvassing all those who did not mail back the completed form. If you're not at home, the census taker will visit your home up to three times, each time leaving a door hanger. Simply call the number on the hanger if you'd like to schedule the next visit. The census taker will ask the same questions that appeared on the census form sent through the mail. The 2010 Census will not ask for your Social Security number, bank account number or credit card number. They will never contact you by e-mail. If you receive a questionnaire that extends beyond the 10 standard questions, it could be the American Community Survey. Unlike the Census, this is an on-going survey and asks more detailed questions. If you receive the American Community Survey, verification is required. You should contact 1-800-923-8282 or visit ask.census.gov. For general information regarding the Census, you can visit their official website, www.census.gov. For phone assistance, you can contact the regional office located in Philadelphia, which serves our area at 1-800-262-4236. You can also check with your Better Business Bureau for updates on Census scams targeting our area at www.bbb.org . Been the victim of a scam -- or nearly one? E-mail us at scamALERT@greatermd.bbb.org and tell us if you think you've identified a suspect company, website, or tactic and we'll investigate. We may even share our findings with other readers here at scamALERT. BBB | Greater MD is a 501(c)6, not-for-profit organization serving Baltimore City and 18 counties including Frederick. For more information visit www.bbb.org.
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