The Carbon Builders Association said people can take several steps to protect themselves from being scammed during the coronavirus pandemic:

• Use a contractor who is a member of the Carbon Builders Association and is registered with the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office. The Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act was designed to protect consumers and authorize criminal penalties for home improvement fraud. Search online by business name or HIC registration number at attorneygeneral.gov.

• Require proof of current insurance coverage.

• If not sure if they are allowed to work, ask for a waiver or some proof that they can be doing work at this time.

• Ask for and follow up with references.

• Be wary of ANY contractor that asks for a large payment or “cash only” upfront. Upfront payments will vary based on the size of the project and materials required but be suspicious of requests for large or full payments.

• Always get more than one estimate but be cautious of unusually low-priced bids.

• Require a clearly written contract.

• Ask for proof of a legitimate local business - for example, a Facebook page, website, business cards, etc. Scammers often travel from surrounding areas, making them more difficult to track down.

• Consider working with a member of the Carbon Builders Association. Consumers can reach out to Carbon Builders Association during the process with questions and concerns when working with a member of the association. They are returning calls and answering questions daily.

• Utilize their website at www.carbonbuilders.com for more information and a member, registered contractor.

To report a scammer or door-to-door solicitation, contact your local police immediately, and then call the Home Improvement Registration Hotline at 888-520-6680. Complaints may also be emailed to the Attorney General’s Office at HIC@attorneygeneral.gov.

Remain vigilant

The Pennsylvania State Police also remind Pennsylvania residents to remain vigilant against scammers attempting to take advantage of the upcoming stimulus disbursement and other program associated with the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) that was signed on March 27. Below are examples of some of the scams that are circulating:

• Emails claiming to be from United States government agencies asking for personally identifying information so the victim will receive their deposit. These emails may have poor grammar and spelling and links that may contain malware that, once installed on the victim’s computer, steal information.

• Texts, robocalls or messages on other platforms containing links directing victims to a website that prompts them to enter their PII and other information, such as bank account information, usernames, passwords and email addresses.

• Callers who claim to have information on “secret” government programs or who offer to help with applications in exchange for your PII and a fee.

Recommendations

• Do not give banking or other personal information to anyone who requests it to make a “stimulus payment.” The federal government is utilizing banking information it already has on file from previous years’ tax returns, so you will probably not have to take any action. If you need to add or update banking information, the IRS is working on creating a web portal. The IRS will make an official announcement when the portal is open.

• Do not give money or personal information to anyone claiming to have information about government programs. If you have a question about a government program or need help with the application process, contact the agency that administers the program. They will assist you or direct you to an appropriate organization that can provide assistance.

• Make sure your computer has the latest updates, and ensure it has an anti-virus program. Delete any email from people you do not recognize or has attachments you are not expecting.

For more information about the CARES Act, visit the US Department of the Treasury website at https://home.treasury.gov.

For the most up-to-date and accurate information about coronavirus and COVID-19 in Pennsylvania, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Health.

PSP reminds residents who fall victim to a scam to report it to their local police department.