US Census Bureau: Avoid Scams and Fraud

Avoiding Fraud and Scams

The U.S. Census Bureau is committed to making the 2020 Census quick, easy, and 

safe for all participants. Here are some tips to help you stay safe.

Avoiding Scams Online

Phishing is a criminal act in which someone tries to get your information by pretending to be
an entity that you trust. Phishing emails often direct you to a website that looks real but is
fake—and may be infected with malware.

It is important to know that the Census Bureau will not send unsolicited emails to request
your participation in the 2020 Census. Further, during the 2020 Census, the Census Bureau
 never ask for:

• Your Social Security number.
• Your bank account or credit card numbers.
• Anything on behalf of a political party.
• Money or donations.

In addition, the Census Bureau will not contact you on behalf of a political party.

Staying Safe at Home
If someone visits your home to collect a response for the 2020 Census, you can do the
following to verify their identity:

• First, check to make sure that they have a valid ID badge, with their photograph, 
• a U.S. Department of Commerce watermark, and an expiration date.
• If you still have questions about their identity, you can call 844-330-2020 to speak
• with a Census Bureau representative.

It’s never been easier to respond from your home. 

RESPOND

Reporting Suspected Fraud

If you suspect fraud, call 844-330-2020 to speak with a Census Bureau representative. I
f it is determined that the visitor who came to your door does not work for the Census Bureau,
contact your local police department.