The IRS is warning you about losing your stimulus payment

GREENSBORO, N.C. — The IRS is issuing a warning about criminals who are out to get your money, and the bad guys want your stimulus payment.

The warning from the IRS website says, “Criminals are continuing to use the COVID-19 economic impact payments as cover for schemes to steal personal information and money.”

IRS GET MY PAYMENT

RELATED: You didn't get your stimulus payment yet? Maybe this is why....

RELATED: She waited for her stimulus check and then it came ripped in half!

RELATED: IRS launches new tool for low-income Americans who haven't received stimulus checks

So, how are they doing that? In so many ways. But it starts with them contacting you.

“Any time there is money involved, scammers will come out. And they follow the headlines just like we do. Anytime you get unsolicited phone calls, emails, texts for the pin number, your ss number or the card number, do not respond,” reminds AARP Fraud Watch Network Director Amy Nofziger.

The caller, or text message, or email may claim to be the IRS, the Social Security Administration, or the bank (of course scammers can branch out, so be aware!)

RELATED: Where are the robocalls coming from? The NC AG is trying to find out

RELATED: No stimulus check? Seeing 'payment status not available'? Try these tips

RELATED: 'I thought it was junk mail' | Stimulus debit cards don't look like you think they would

RELATED: Stimulus Payment: How the IRS will get your payment to you

They're trying to trick you by saying, “They can help you get your payment faster, or there's been fraud with your payment and they’re trying to help you.”  Don't fall for it. If you get a call, a text, an email, don't respond. Instead, look up the number to the bank or social security office and call or go online yourself.

Don’t be fooled. Know the facts:  

• The bank, the IRS, the Social Security Administration-- they don't contact you and ask for your information.
• You never have to pay to get your stimulus payment.