Overview
The Advantage Approval Department scam is a fraudulent scheme that targets American consumers, promising government subsidies, stimulus checks, and other financial aid that does not actually exist. Scammers use a variety of tactics, including robocalls, social media ads, and emails, to trick victims into providing their personal information and paying fees for non-existent benefits. This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth look at how the scam works, how to identify it, and most importantly, how to protect yourself from becoming a victim.
What is the Advantage Approval Department scam?
The Relief Advisory Approval Department scam is a fraudulent scheme targets American consumers, promising government subsidies, stimulus checks, and other financial aid that does not actually exist. Scammers use a variety of tactics, including robocalls, social media ads, and emails, to trick victims into providing their personal information and paying fees for non-existent benefits. Any communication referencing the Relief Advisory Approval Department or claiming you are guaranteed government funds is an attempted scam.
How do I recognize the contact from the fake Advantages Approval Department?
To recognize the contact from the fake Advantages Approval Department, watch for these common indicators:
- References to the Advantages Approval Department, Treasury Department, or other official sounding fake agency names.
- Unsolicited robocalls, voicemails, emails or social media ads promising guaranteed stimulus checks or aid funds if you act quickly.
- Claims that you are “pre-qualified” or “guaranteed” benefits without applying.
- Requests for personal information like social security numbers, bank details etc.
- Demands to pay fees through gift cards, Bitcoin, wire transfers etc. before receiving funds.
- Threats of quick deadlines or account closures if you do not act immediately.
What methods do the scamsters use?
The initial contact is through robocalls, social media ads, or mass emails. These communicate an urgent deadline to claim guaranteed government funds. Victims then contact fake representatives who collect personal information or demand remote access to devices. Ultimately fees are requested via gift cards, Bitcoin etc. before any funds are released.
What happens if i call the robocall back or follow email links?
You will reach a scammer posing as a government agent. They will ask you to confirm personal details to process “stimulus funds”, but really intend to steal your identity and money. If you contact phone/email addresses in their messages, you will become a victim.
Why won't the government request fees before providing stimuli aid?
The government never requires upfront payments of any kind to deliver stimulus checks, tax refunds, or aid funds. Needing to pay gift card or Bitcoin fees to get your own benefits is always a scam tactic.
What should i do if the advantages approval department contacts me?
Do not call back robocalls, click email links, or provide any personal or financial information. Report the contact attempt to the FTC. Check your credit reports and bank statements for any signs of fraud. Avoid any further engagement or payment.
I already paid fees to the advantages approval department – what now?
If you paid fees via gift card, report it immediately to the retailer and law enforcement. If you paid another way, contact your bank. Freeze accounts, scan devices for malware, change passwords, check credit reports for fraud, and file police reports. Act quickly to limit damages.
How can i protect myself from the advantages approval department scam?
Never pay upfront fees, share personal information, or grant remote access in response to unsolicited calls/messages. Verify offers directly through official government channels. Use unique passwords, monitor financial accounts, and check credit reports regularly to detect fraud.
Where can i report the advantages approval department scam?
File detailed reports with the FTC at ReportFraud.dot.gov and FBI at ic3.gov. Contact your local police department as well. Provide all available details on the scambers and fraud activity when reporting.
Will i get my money back if i paid fees to the scam artists?
Likely not, but report it to authorities and your bank immediately for the best chance. File charges, dispute unauthorized transactions, and consider legal options. Preventing further damages is crucial. Monitor for any other signs of identity theft moving forward.
Stay vigilant and avoid quick aid offers that ask for upfront fees or personal details. Report scam contact attempts to protect yourself and others.
The bottom line
The Advantages Approval Department scammisleads Americans struggling financially with promises of guaranteed stimulus checks, subsidies, and other aid that does not actually exist. Skilled scamsters use robocalls, social media ads, emails, and fake government representatives to steal personal information and funds from victims.
If contacted by the fraudulent Advantages Approval Department, or similar fake agencies, avoid their links and numbers. Never pay upfront fees, share sensitive data, or grant remote access to protect yourself from fraud. Monitor accounts and credit reports closely and report any suspicious activity right away.
While economic challenges may persist for many, real solutions require patience and wisdom, not falling for scams promising easy cash. Share this guide to help prevent others from becoming victims and strip scammers of their power.
