Viral posts claim stimulus checks are on the way. Here’s what you should know

Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Donald Trump’s victory over Kamala Harris in the presidential election has led to a spike in social media posts claiming that Americans are set to receive a new batch of stimulus checks from the federal government just as the holiday season approaches. Donald Trump’s name appears on a Covid-19 economic assistance check, one of millions that were sent to Americans at the height of the pandemic IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel advised against relying on social media platforms for financial information in a statement of his own this April. “There are many ways to get good tax information, including @irsnews on social media and from trusted tax professionals.” He continued: “People should be careful with who they’re following on social media for tax advice. “Unlike hacks to fix a leaky kitchen sink or creative makeup tips, people shouldn’t rely on made-up ways on social media to patch up their tax return and boost their refund.” The new posts are only the latest example of scams centered around the promise of non-existent stimulus checks.