Census survey is real, Utah says

Surveys arriving from the U.S. Census Bureau that ask for income and other information are not a scam, Utah consumer protection officials say.The Division of Consumer Protection said it is receiving calls from people concerned about the letters because they ask for income information.

Francine Giani, director of the division, said the letters are part of the annual American Community Survey conducted by the Census Bureau to provide updates nationally on a variety of demographic data, and they are not part of a fraud.

The Census Bureau invites anyone who has received such a questionnaire and wants to ensure that it is legitimate to call its Denver office at 1-800-852-6159.

Giani said taking that extra step is always wise if a question exists. "We encourage consumers to take that extra step to verify request for personal information because scam artists are always looking for new ways to take advantage of the public," she said.

— Lee Davidson