Scam & Fraud Information

How to Avoid Scammers

Scammers have been on the prowl lately. Please review these simple tips to avoid becoming a victim:

• If you feel something isn't right, it probably isn't. Trust your instincts. You can always contact the police for advice if you believe someone is trying to scam you.
• Any way to get to you is fair game for a scammer. You can be contacted by:
  • Email
  • Fax Machine
  • In Person
  • Postal Mail
  • Telephone
  • Text Message
• Do not respond to unsolicited contact. If it isn't something you asked for, you probably don't want what they are offering.
• Verify, verify, verify. Use the internet for reverse phone lookup, company profile information, or current scams in the news. You usually can determine who actually contacted you.
• Don't get caught in the trap of urgency. A scammer will try and get you to make a quick decision, hoping you are not paying attention or scaring you. Make sure time is on your side, not theirs.
• Just because they say they are from a real business or organization (local law enforcement, Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), your power company), doesn't mean they are. Contact the actual business or organization before making any decisions, or especially, sending any money.
• Any time a person you do not know asks you to pay money in the form of a "Green Dot Moneypak Card" it is a scam.

Remember, scammers rely on your cooperation. Refusing to help them commit the crime is the best way to not become a victim.