Scam of the Week: Watch Out for Rebate Scams

Internet criminals are posing as trustworthy sources so they can trick you into thinking you have earned a reimbursement or rebate. If you fall for it, the bad guys will end up with your banking information or credit card number. They will pretend to be from the government, a bank, or another trusted organization, and they’ll ask you to make a small, initial “administration fee” in order to claim the amount that is supposedly owed to you. If you provide your banking or credit card information, not only will you not receive the rebate, you’ll also lose a lot more money than the initial "administration fee".

To protect yourself, reach out to the organization directly and verify that they are giving out rebates. But remember to never use the contact information found in the message that was sent to you. Look up the organization’s contact information yourself to be sure it is legitimate.

Stay safe out there!

Stop, Look, and Think. Don't be fooled.