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Fraud Alert, Scams

By Staff | Sep 15, 2010

Has this ever happened to you? Your telephone rings and a voice simply says, “Do you own a small dog?” Without thinking you reply with a simple “yes” or “no”. The telephone line is silent and the call is disconnected. It’s possible that your voice was just recorded to be used to steal your money. Or perhaps you’ve received a call from someone claiming that a very “distant” relative died and left you an inheritance. You are told that all you have to do to collect your funds is send money to cover your “taxes.” If it hasn’t happened to you yet – there is a good chance that it will. That’s why the Lee County Sheriff’s Office wants you to know that although these calls are quite different, they are very much the same. They are both SCAMS!

The Sheriff’s Office Fraud Line has received calls from residents who report they’ve been targeted by scammers using both of these tactics. A quick check on the Internet reveals that Lee County is not the only area under fire with these types of scams. In order to protect yourself from becoming a victim, we are providing you with some “red flags” of fraud:

-A promise that you can win money, make money or borrow money easily

-A demand that you act immediately or else miss out on this great opportunity

-A refusal to send you written information before you agree to buy or donate

-An attempt to scare you into buying something

-Insistence that you wire money or have a courier pick up your payment

-A refusal to stop calling after you’ve asked not to be called again

The common thread that runs through all telemarketing scams is the DEMAND for payment upfront. You should know that:

-It’s ILLEGAL for companies that operate contests or sweepstakes to ask you to pay to enter or claim your prize or even suggest that your chances of winning will improve if you buy something; and

-If you have to pay first before getting your “winnings” – it’s a SCAM!

For assistance call the Lee County Sheriff’s Office Fraud Line: 477-1242

Media inquires should be directed to Community Relations Manager, at 477-1481