How to Avoid Census Fraud
It's important to be counted and be safe!
With the 2010 Census now underway, the Better Business Bureau urges the public to cooperate but cautions people about the potential fraud and indentify theft. Click here for the three things you should know and share with family and friends:
- Official U.S. Census workers now going door to door can be identified by their badge, handheld device and canvas Census Bureau bag. Ask to see the individual’s badge before answering any questions, and do not invite anyone you don’t know into your home.
- Census workers will verify how many people live at your address and gather information about each person, including name, age, gender, race, and so on. Although they may ask for basic financial information, such as salary range, they will NOT ask for Social Security, bank account or credit card numbers, nor will they solicit donations. You are not required to answer any questions about your financial situation.
- Census workers may contact you in person or by telephone or mail, but they will NOT contact you by email. Beware of email scams and never click on a link or open an attachment in an email allegedly from the U.S. Census Bureau.
For more advice on avoiding identity theft and fraud, visit www.bbb.org.