Protect Yourself: IRS $1400 Stimulus Check Scam Alert

There's been a lot of news regarding the $1,400 stimulus check coming from the IRS to nearly 1 million Americans. That part is true. However, thieves and scammers also watch the news and they're betting on you letting down your guard.

Here's the skinny: the IRS does NOT notify you by phone text that you'll be receiving a stimulus check. Ever.

If you get a text purporting to be from the IRS and offering a $1400 stimulus rebate, don't click on any links -- it's a scam. It sounds real but the check would have come in your mailbox automatically. The scammers are simply phishing for personal information and you should not follow any links sent by text supposedly coming from the Internal Revenue Service.

Furthermore, the scammers sweeten the pot by claiming if you click on this link and supply personal information - including bank routing numbers - you'll receive the money automatically within 1 - 2 business days. That's bogus.

The IRS does not contact taxpayers using text, social media, or email.

According to CBS News, the stimulus checks are for Americans who did not receive their full amount during the pandemic.

Stay aware and share this news with loved ones. Protect yourself.