(MONEY Magazine) – Oh, the irony: Scammers are invoking the name of our government to rip off unsuspecting sorts. Callers from "U.S. Federal Grant Information Central" or the "Government Grant Information Guide" deliver the news: You're guaranteed to receive a government grant! Some folks qualify because they're seniors, you see; some because they're students or residents of a disaster area. Grants range from $8,000 to $25,000.

The catch? You must pay a processing fee of $239. Not bad for the payoff, you figure, and so when asked for your bank account number, you sing. Weeks later, you may actually get something for your $239: a pamphlet on how to apply for government grants.

The Better Business Bureau, which reports a nationwide "explosion" of the bogus calls in recent months, notes that government grants are not offered by phone, nor are application fees required. If you do get such a call, contact your local BBB. —JOAN CAPLIN