Waitlist Scams
We want to bring to your attention a concerning issue affecting our community. Scammers have been actively targeting individuals seeking Section 8 housing assistance, attempting to exploit personal information for fraudulent purposes. This not only puts you at risk but also undermines the trust and integrity of our housing programs.
Recent Scam Alert: Fliers have been circulating on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, falsely advertising assistance with Section 8 funding. These fliers direct you to a fraudulent website, 'www.govassistance[dot]org', which is NOT legitimate. The goal of this scam is to steal your personal information, which can lead to identity theft and other serious issues.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Be Skeptical: If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always verify information with trusted sources.
- Avoid Suspicious Links: Never click on hyperlinks from unknown sources. If you're unsure, contact us or another trusted organization to confirm legitimacy.
- Guard Your Personal Information: Never submit your Social Security Number, bank or credit card details, or other sensitive information on websites found through online searches unless you are sure they are secure and legitimate.
What to Do If You Suspect a Scam: If you think you have encountered a scam or have fallen victim to one, you can file a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at https://www.ic3.gov/.
Additionally, if someone contacts you about a scam involving HUD, please notify our Computer Incident Response Team (CIRT) at CIRT@hud.gov.
We encourage everyone to stay vigilant and informed. If you have any questions or concerns about applying for Section 8 or other housing programs, please don't hesitate to contact our office. Remember, you will never be charged to join a waiting list for housing assistance.