⚠️ Important Fraud Alert for Raleigh Residents

Residents across Raleigh and the Triangle should stay vigilant after reports of scammers falsely claiming to represent the U.S. Treasury Department and the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund). These scams typically involve fake grant offers designed to steal personal information or money.

If you receive a suspicious call, email, or message claiming you’ve been awarded government funds — proceed with caution.

💰 How This Scam Works

Scammers may:

Claim you’ve been awarded a federal grant or financial assistance Request personal information such as Social Security numbers or banking details Ask for an upfront fee to “release” the funds Use official-sounding titles or spoofed email addresses

👉 The U.S. Treasury Department and CDFI Fund do NOT run programs requiring advance payments to receive grant money.

Requests for payment to access government funds are a major red flag.

🏡 Why This Matters in Raleigh

With Raleigh’s growing small-business community, nonprofit sector, and entrepreneurial ecosystem, residents often seek legitimate grants or funding opportunities. Unfortunately, scammers exploit that interest.

Local entrepreneurs, freelancers, seniors, and community organizations are especially common targets.

Being informed helps protect not just individuals — but the broader Raleigh community.

🔎 Signs You’re Dealing With a Scam

Watch for:

Unsolicited grant or prize notifications Pressure to act quickly Requests for gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency Requests for sensitive personal information Emails or calls claiming government affiliation without official verification

When in doubt, verify independently — never rely on contact information provided by the caller.

📞 What To Do If You’re Contacted

If you believe you’ve been targeted:

Report it immediately to the U.S. Treasury Office of Inspector General (OIG):

Online reporting form available via Treasury OIG website Phone hotline: 1-800-359-3898

You can also report scams to consumer protection authorities and monitor alerts through federal consumer safety resources.

🛡️ How Raleigh Residents Can Stay Protected

✔ Never pay upfront for grants or government funds

✔ Verify information through official government websites

✔ Talk with trusted advisors before sending money

✔ Monitor your credit and financial accounts regularly

✔ Share alerts with neighbors, family, and local business networks

Community awareness helps prevent fraud from spreading.

Final Takeaway

Raleigh is a thriving, connected community — but scammers often target active and engaged residents. Staying informed and cautious protects your finances, identity, and peace of mind.

If something feels suspicious, trust your instincts and verify before acting.

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