Avoiding PFD Scams and Predatory Offers

Protecting Your Dividend from Common Pitfalls Right After PFD Season 

The arrival of Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) provides extra funds for many families — but it also attracts scammers and high-pressure salespeople who see it as an opportunity. Every year, state officials report a spike in fraud attempts timed to coincide with PFD deposits. 

Don’t let scams or bad deals turn your dividend into a loss – awareness is your best defense. 

Why Scammers Love PFD Season 

Whenever a large number of people receive a predictable influx of money, fraudsters take notice. In recent years, Alaska officials have seen a significant increase in attempts to steal personal information tied to the PFD. Scammers use phishing emails, texts, and calls pretending to be from government agencies or offering fake “deals.” 

Common PFD-Targeted Scams Include: 

Phishing Messages: Emails or texts claiming you have a “PFD refund,” need to “claim your prize,” or must verify your account using a suspicious link. Clicking can steal your banking details or install malware. 

Fake Government or Bank Calls: Scammers impersonate the Alaska Department of Revenue, state troopers, or your financial institution, claiming your PFD is delayed or your account is locked unless you provide information or make a payment. 

High-Pressure Sales Pitches: “Limited-time” deals on cars, home improvements, vacations, or investments that require you act immediately using your PFD funds. 

Predatory Lending: Payday loans and similar high-cost products marketed aggressively around PFD time. These often carry very high interest rates and may lead to ongoing debt if not carefully managed. In some cases, lenders have pursued repayment through legal action, including attempts to access borrowers’ PFD funds. 

The Real Cost of Fraud in Alaska 

Fraud hits Alaskans hard. Recent reports indicate thousands of fraud cases in Alaska totaling millions of dollars in losses annually. Impostor scams (where fraudsters preten to be government officials or trusted companies) are among the most common. 

Alaska has historically ranked among the highest states for scam losses per capita, and PFD season can increase risk due to the availability of funds. 

Tips to Protect Yourself 

1. Verify Before You Act - The PFD program does not ask residents to pay money, click links, or provide personal information through unsolicited messages to “claim” a dividend. If you receive a suspicious call, text, or email, hang up or delete it. Contact the agency directly using a known, official number or website.
2. Guard Your Information - Never share your Social Security number, bank details, or PFD account information unless you initiated the contact. Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication on financial accounts. Monitor your bank and credit accounts closely in the weeks after PFD deposits.
3. Handle Predatory Offers Wisely - Avoid “too good to be true” deals with tight deadlines. Legitimate businesses give you time to review your options. For loans, read the fine print. Compare APRs and terms with trusted options, like credit union loans, before choosing high-cost alternatives. If something feels pushy or requires upfront fees for a “prize” or loan, it is likely a scam.
4. Additional Fraud Protection Steps - Place a fraud alert or credit freeze with the major credit bureaus if you suspect identity theft. Report scams to the Alaska Department of Law Consumer Protection Unit, the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, and local authorities.

Use official PFD resources by visiting pfd.alaska.gov for legitimate updates. 

Alaska Department of Revenue investigators emphasize vigilance, noting that scammers often create urgency around fake refunds or claims. Consumer protection experts consistently warn that if you are asked to pay upfront to receive a prize or winnings, it’s likely a scam. 

Your PFD is hard-earned Alaska money meant to benefit you and your family — not scammers or predatory lenders. By staying cautious with unsolicited contacts, avoiding rushed decisions, and using trusted financial institutions, you can help protect your funds. 

ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITY 

In addition to protecting your PFD, you may also have opportunities to maximize its value. 

When you direct deposit your PFD into a Nuvision account, you may be eligible to be entered into the $26,000 PFD Sweepstakes. You may have a chance to win the $5,500 grand prize or one of three (3) $2,500 runner-up prizes. Returning participants who enter and win may be eligible to double their prize money, subject to sweepstakes rules. 

Set up direct deposit and earn one entry per month through September–giving you even more reason to make your PFD go further this year. 

Important Disclosures: 

No purchase necessary. Open to eligible participants. Odds of winning depend on number of entries received. See the official rules for entry requirements, eligibility, and prize details. 

This article is for educational and general information purposes only and is not intended as financial, tax, or investment advice. Individual circumstances vary.