The U.S. Census is set to begin soon. The census is necessary for determining future funding for states, counties, cities, and school districts. It is used to determine the number of representatives each area elects. And 100 years from now, our descendents may be using them to figure out who we were. Plus everyone wants to know the demographics of a community, especially when looking for a new place to call home.

There is little wrong with the census itself. However you need to be cautious when the census worker comes knocking on your door. They may not be who they seem.

Con artists seeking to take advantage of people’s trust may attempt to masquerade as US Census workers. They could be seeking identities to steal, credit card or other financial information to use, or marking targets for future crimes.

A true US Census worker has been checked out and you can rest assured that the real ones will bring you no harm. But how do you know if they are real? Here are some things the Better Business Bureau suggests you keep in mind.

• US Census workers will have a badge, a handheld device, a Census Bureau canvas bag, and a confidentiality notice. Ask to see their badge and identification. Do NOT invite them into your home.

• Census workers are knocking on doors to verify address information. They will not ask for Social Security number, credit card or banking information. Do NOT give these out no matter who the person appears to be.

• The only information they truly need is how many people live at your address. If any questions make you feel uncomfortable, you do not have to answer. This includes specifics about your financial situation, although they might ask for a salary range.

• Acorn workers should NOT be working for the US Census bureau; do not answer their questions if they identify themselves in this way.

• The Census workers may contact you by telephone, mail or in person at home; however they will not contact you by e-mail. If you receive such an e-mail, it IS spam or a phishing scam. Delete it immediately. Do not click on any links or open any attachments in such an email, it could contain a vicious virus.

Please be sure your friends and family have heard this information. Con artists especially like to prey on the elderly and those who do not speak English fluently.

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