You get a letter or an e-mail that appears to be from the government informing you that you qualify for a grant under the federal economic stimulus plan.
The letter tells you that your sector was one of several selected to receive the money. It adds that the money is only intended for retraining in a different centre or is part of a bailout for the sector you worked in before.
Either way, you're not a fool and don't make a habit of saying "no" to free money. To have the grant sent to you, you need to fill out an online form with your Social Security Number, personal information and banking information so they can make the transfer. Unfortunately, the minute you submit the form is the minute you've given away your savings and invited someone to be your identity theft.
How to avoid: a phone call to the government is always a good idea before you give away your information. Don't trust the contact information on the letter, though; look up your bank's number online. Talk to the department who the letter says is responsible and find out if there is such a program. Otherwise, you could be sabotaging your future.