Greg's Corner

New $5K Scam Uses DOGE & Gov’t Promise

By Greg Collier

A new scam is making the rounds via text message, luring victims with the promise of a $5,000 federal subsidy. Authorities in Crawford County, Kansas, are warning residents to stay vigilant as scammers attempt to trick recipients into handing over personal information under the guise of government assistance.

The fraudulent message claims that recent budget cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency have freed up money for distribution. It instructs recipients to reply with a confirmation, reopen the message, and click a provided link. This is an attempt to bypass security settings and increase engagement. The scammers promise that after submitting personal details, a check will be deposited directly into the recipient’s bank account or mailed within days.

Officials have confirmed that this is a scam. Legitimate government agencies do not distribute funds in this manner, nor do they request sensitive information via unsolicited text messages. Anyone receiving such a message should delete it immediately and block the sender if possible. If there’s any uncertainty about a suspicious message, local law enforcement agencies can provide guidance, and reports can also be filed through official fraud reporting channels.

This scam is just one example of how fraudsters exploit official-sounding names to appear legitimate. By invoking the ‘Department of Government Efficiency’, scammers create a sense of credibility, making their scheme more convincing. Similar tactics have been used in the past, and it’s likely that more scams will emerge using fabricated agencies or misleading government affiliations. Staying cautious of unsolicited financial offers, especially those that pressure quick action or request personal information, is essential in avoiding these ever-evolving threats.