In June 2024, a widespread false rumor on Google about the IRS issuing $8,700 stimulus checks garnered significant public attention alongside unrelated search topics, highlighting ongoing concerns about misinformation and scams.
Exploring the Impact of the False $8,700 IRS Stimulus Check Rumor in June 2024
According to the article in Snopes, in June 2024, a false rumor spread widely on Google suggesting that the IRS would give $8,700 stimulus checks to eligible Americans. Many people searched for information on this topic, showing a lot of interest and worry among the public. Alongside this fake news, other popular searches included unrelated events like North Korea‘s actions and unusual incidents such as a woman stuck in quicksand on a Maine beach.
This rumor is similar to past scams that trick people by promising money from government agencies like the IRS. These scams often use social media ads and unofficial websites to spread false information. Despite the high search interest, trustworthy news sources have not reported any plans for new stimulus checks in 2024, confirming that the rumor is not true.
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$8,700 Stimulus Check Scam Alert: 2024 IRS Rumor Exposed – Public Urged to Stay Vigilant Against Fraudulent Schemes (PHOTO: AARP)
IRS Warns Against Stimulus Check Scams and Promotes Official Federal Assistance Programs
The IRS warns against scams promising free money, stressing that the government does not distribute funds in this manner. They advise caution regarding messages or ads offering such claims and encourage reporting suspicious communications to the FTC. Genuine federal assistance programs for food, housing, healthcare, and education can be accessed through official websites like Benefits.gov, with specific eligibility criteria and application procedures.
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