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Beware of Census scammers

     Seniors in Riverside County should participate in the U.S. Census but beware of people who might use the once-a-decade survey to commit fraud, Riverside County officials warn.
     Scammers who pose as census workers to get personal information from elderly residents have been reported throughout the nation, says Office on Aging Director Ed Walsh. While there haven’t been any local reports, county officials are concerned they could become more common as census forms arrive in residents’ mail.
      “Participating in the census is one of the most important contributions seniors can make for their communities,” Walsh says. “However, we want to ensure that all residents participate safely.”
     The county Office on Aging is partnering with the Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) to provide countywide workshops about the important link between the census and local services. Information also will be available on detecting potential census fraud and steps residents can take to protect themselves.
     For example, anyone who claims to be a census worker should have official identification, says DPSS Director Susan Loew. Census employees will never ask to enter a home or request personal information such as bank account numbers, social security numbers or residents’ signatures.
     Census forms will arrive in mailboxes around mid-March and residents who do not return the 10-question form can expect a visit from a census worker in April. Anyone visiting before the expected time frame, asking for information about personal finances or social security number is likely not a census worker.
      “It’s a shame that people out there will use such an important historical moment to defraud our community,” Loew says. “But with the right information our seniors can safely contribute toward an accurate count in Riverside County.”
     State and federal funding for services, such as health care and programs for the elderly, is based on the number of people counted.
     The U.S. Census Department never makes any contact via e-mail but might call only to clarify incomplete information on a submitted form. To confirm the identity of a census worker, Riverside County residents can call the local offices at 951-324-2030. For more information or a list of available workshops, call 800-476-7506. A workshop calendar also is available at www.rcaging.org.

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