Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Federal agricultural officials are warning Kansas farmers and producers about a scam seeking personal information.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture said fraudulent letters are being sent by FAX to individuals and businesses. The letters purportedly come from a USDA procurement officer and seek personal information.
The fraudulent letters bear USDA's logo and seal and are signed by an individual identified as "Frank Rutenberg" using a title of "Senior Procurement Officer.”
Kansas farm service officials said several Kansans have received this letter and have provided financial information.
The agency is urging recipients who receive a similar letter to report the scam to the USDA at 202-720-9448.