BCC Hosts Aug. 12 Scam Jam to Shield Job Seekers From Fraud and Identity Theft

Q: Could an unexpected IRS notice reveal that a criminal is already working a job under your name and Social Security number?

Yes. An unexpected IRS notice can be one of the clearest signs that someone is already working under your name and Social Security number. That risk is part of why Brunswick Community College’s “Scam Jam” matters: employment scams do not just steal money, they can lead to employment-related identity theft. Federal guidance says warning signs include an IRS notice about unreported income, a CP2000 notice, a CP01E notice, or a W-2 or 1099 from an employer you do not recognize. Those notices can mean wages were reported to the IRS and Social Security Administration using your SSN. If that happens, do not add the unknown income to your tax return and do not file an amended return just to match the notice. The IRS advises contacting the number on the notice immediately if it is a CP2000, and contacting the Social Security Administration if you received a W-2 or 1099 from an unfamiliar employer. Victims should also report the case at IdentityTheft.gov, consider getting an IRS Identity Protection PIN, and place a fraud alert or credit freeze. Another useful step is using E-Verify’s Self Lock feature to help stop someone from using your SSN for employment purposes. You should also review your Social Security earnings record for employers or wages that do not belong to you. In short, a surprise IRS letter may not just be a tax problem. It can be the first clue that identity theft is already affecting your work history, taxes and future job screening.

1 articles · Updated · WWAY NewsChannel 3 · Aug 5

Brunswick Community College and NCWorks will hold a free Scam Jam on Aug. 12 from 9 a.m. to noon in Bolivia, North Carolina, aimed at helping job seekers spot employment fraud and protect personal data.
The program will cover fake job postings, identity theft, consumer and wage fraud, worker rights, banking and Medicare fraud prevention, plus safe job-search strategies and NCWorks services.
Presenters include North Carolina justice, insurance and labor agencies, the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office, SECU, NCWorks staff and local employers discussing legitimate hiring practices and what applicants should expect.
At the Douglas Terhune Center for Culinary Arts, attendees can also visit resource tables and speak one-on-one with presenters, extending the event beyond awareness to direct access to regional support services.