LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY)-- Be aware of possible scams amid looming cuts to federal assistance programs from the government shutdown, like SNAP benefits.

The Better Business Bureau has received over 800 reports of "relief check" scams in just 2 months.

Scammers are calling victims and saying they have unclaimed money from past relief programs or federal assistance payments. They take advantage of desperate victims and push urgency, saying if you don't claim it right away, the money will be returned.

Then, the con-artists direct them to a phishing website to claim their so-called "relief check." It does not lead to real government websites, instead it goes to a site called "My Cash Search."

Kathryn Mobley, Better Business Bureau of Acadiana CEO, said scam sites often look real

“Just make sure you check it's a legitimate website. Check that small print to see," Mobley said. "If it is a government agency, they will always- I mean on websites, they will make that very loud and clear.”

On the scam site, they request personal information.

“I mean all of your information’s in there," Mobley said. "So, like any scam that we see, if go on that, it could be malware. It could be a fake site. They could take all of your personal identification.”

The BBB also warns visiting this "My Cash Search" site puts your bank account and identity at risk.

Here's how to avoid relief check scams:

• Don't engage. Hang up. Government agencies will not call you and tell you to visit a random website to claim money.
• Verify with official sources and avoid unfamiliar websites. Contact government agencies directly using the information from official websites. Do not visit links given by the caller.
• Never share personal or financial information with strangers. This includes social security numbers, banking information and your address.

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