BBB warns of new scam

JACKSON — The Better Business Bureau Mississippi (BBB Mississippi) warns consumers that scam artists, claiming to represent a federal agency, are telling them that they have been selected to receive government grants, often ranging from $10,000-30,000.

“The scammers are saying that processing fees, ranging from $250-500, must be paid to receive the grant money,” said Bill Moak, president/CEO of BBB Mississippi. “In response, some individuals have provided bank account information while others have wired money. According to every report, that fee is the only money that ever changes hands.”

The BBB is reminding consumers that government grants are not entitlements or benefits, are not federal assistance or loans to individuals, have no processing fees and are not issued for personal use.