With the 2010 Census now underway, the Better Business Bureau urges the public to cooperate but cautions people about potential fraud and identity theft. Here are three things you should know and share with family and friends:

• Official U. S. Census workers now going door to door can be identified by their
badge, handheld device and canvas Census Bureau bag. Ask to see the individual’s
badge before answering any questions, and do not invite anyone you don’t know
into your home.

• Census workers will verify how many people live at your address and gather
information about each person, including name, age, gender, race, and so on.
Although they may ask for basic financial information, such as salary range, they will
NOT ask for Social Security, bank account or credit card numbers, nor will they solicit
donations. You are not required to answer any questions about your
financial situation.

• Census workers may contact you in person or by telephone or mail, but they will NOT
contact you by email. Beware of email scams and never click on a link or open an
attachment in an email allegedly from the U.S. Census Bureau.

For more advice on avoiding identity theft and fraud, visit www.bbb.org.