Publications for the Public and Program Participants

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Office of Inspector General (OIG), and the Office of the Chief Procurement Officer have identified an ongoing fraud scheme intentionally targeting small businesses, large corporations, government vendors, and contractors for the purpose of obtaining electronic equipment such as laptops, mobile phones, hard drives, digital projectors, solar panels, and other high-value merchandise. The email phishing attempts entice vendors to ship high-value merchandise and equipment to suspicious addresses and locations that are frequently either public storage companies or abandoned commercial properties.

The urgency in post-disaster recoveries often leads State and local officials to work to quickly restore infrastructure and public services and help make repairs. Such urgency can sometimes result in cutting corners with CDBG program requirements. However, grantees and sub-recipients that do not follow all CDBG program requirements may be forced to repay Federal funds.

HUD OIG drafted a fraud bulletin outlining potential common reverse mortgage schemes that borrowers may face, along with actions to take and not take if you are considering a reverse mortgage loan.

HUDOIG drafted a fraud bulletin on how to identify anticompetitive bidding schemes that may occur in COVID-19-Related procurements.

HUD OIG drafted a fraud bulletin outlining potential loan modification and foreclosure rescue schemes that borrowers may face. 

HUD OIG drafted a bulletin outlining guidance that the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) has provided for borrowers and servicers to implement the forbearance provisions of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

The Office of Inspector General recognizes that we are facing both uncertain and unprecedented times and is alerting the public about potential fraud schemes related to the CARES Act funding. Dishonest people may approach you with fraudulent offers of assistance during these economically difficult times. Be on the lookout for these common schemes. Note that scam attempts may be made by phone, mail, text, email, social media, or in person.

In response to the pandemic caused by the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19), Congress passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), which provides protections to renters who receive assistance from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

In response to the pandemic caused by the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19), Congress passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), which provides protections to borrowers with loans insured by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The Office of Inspector General would like to make sure you are aware that dishonest people may attempt to take advantage of the crisis to harm you.