MEUSER, SUOZZI INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN “SCAM” ACT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Congressmen Dan Meuser (PA-09) and Tom Suozzi (NY-3) introduced the Coronavirus Swindlers, Crooks, and Manipulators (SCAM) Act, a bipartisan effort to crack down on the rising number of scams during the coronavirus pandemic. Some of the most common offenses have included phishing emails targeted at seniors and their recovery checks, websites selling fake masks, and deliberate misinformation regarding CDC guidance. The SCAM Act would heighten the penalties for those committing these crimes during the coronavirus pandemic.

"Since the coronavirus pandemic began, there has been an unfortunate rise in the number of scams aimed at taking advantage of hardworking Americans and seniors," said Rep. Meuser. "For example, the FTC has reported more than 50,000 scams totaling $38.6 million dollars and the IRS has investigated 15,000 false websites since economic impact payments began. These fraudulent schemes are always shameful, but scammers using this time of crisis to take advantage of vulnerable individuals is absolutely reprehensible. The SCAM Act warns that these scammers engaging in deceitful activities will pay a steep price."

"Taking advantage of elderly Americans amid their anxieties regarding the pandemic is deplorable," said Rep. Suozzi. "We must do everything we can to deter scam-artists from taking advantage of this global crisis. I am proud to introduce this critical, bipartisan legislation alongside Rep. Meuser."

To read the bill, click HERE.

Department of Veterans' Affairs: 1-888-407-0144

Federal Trade Commission: 1-877-382-4357

Department of Justice: 866-720-5721

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