View any free offers with skepticism, regardless of the source. Grant scams target people who believe they can get something for nothing or a nominal fee.
Suspect claims of government authority. If someone calls or emails and claims to represent a government agency that is willing to give you a grant to fund a business, pay an loan, seed a project or for any other reason, hang up or don't reply unless you've applied for a grant with that agency. Government agencies that give grants do not make random calls. Ignore grant offers that you see in classified ads.
Understand that most grant scams follow the same scenario: a swindler claims you are eligible for a free grant and requests your bank account information so that his agency can direct deposit the grant money, or he asks for money to cover the cost of a processing fee. Government agencies and other legitimate grant sources do not require fees.
Visit your local library to research institutions that award grants. Learn more about agencies that award grants and how the process works (see Resources below).
Suspect anyone who requests access to your bank account. Never reveal information about your bank account to anyone unless you are familiar with the business or individual.