Beware of Fake Faxes

Scam artists and identity thieves are getting more brazen all the time. Take into account the recent fraudulent USDA letters being faxed out to individuals and business in at least four states. These letters claim to be from a USDA procurement officer and ask the recipient for personal and financial information. The fake letters even bear the USDA logo and seal and are signed by an individual calling themselves “Frank Rutenberg”, using a title of Senior Procurement Officer”. In no way, shape, or form should people receiving these letters respond or supply any of the requested information. They should however contact the USDA directly. The USDA is investigating this matter through the Office of the Inspector General. It takes some pretty big cojones to try and pass yourself off as the USDA, but it also comes as no surprise. There are thousands of online predators sitting at their computers right now working out the best possible way to ambush you and your computer. No one is immune to these scammers. The unemployed are often taken in by “Work from Home” scams, while the elderly fall prey to “grandchildren need money” calls. We all need to be on our guard.