Ohioans expecting stimulus payments from the federal government via legislation enacted in response to the COVID-19 outbreak also should be wary of scammers trying to pry that money loose from their accounts.

Sen. Sherrod Brown said Wednesday that elderly Ohioans in particular should be skeptical of those who might try to take advantage of them as the federal government begins sending payments of as much as $1,200 per person.

 “It’s the age-old issue: a population at higher risk for complications due to coronavirus are more vulnerable to scams that make false promises about cures or that sometimes offer fake testing,” Brown said during a conference call with reporters.

Last week, Congress approved a $2 trillion stimulus and relief package that includes direct payments to individuals. Those who earn up to $75,000 will be eligible for a $1,200 payment, which will be smaller for those who earn more. The stimulus also includes $500 per child.

 “We see news reports indicating that scammers are targeting and taking advantage of Ohioans during these scary and confusing times. These scammers are preying on seniors especially,” Brown said.

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