LACEY – Township Police are warning residents to avoid scams as they have continued to receive complaints from residents reporting them.
Police are urging residents not to share personal information over the phone or agree to purchase gift cards to reduce debt.
Scammers are constantly seeking new ways to convince victims, over the phone or internet, to provide them with cash and information. Many of the scams target seniors who are often deceived due to their kindness.
Among the current scams circulating that residents should be aware of include:
Microsoft – Victims receive a phone call or email pertaining to the slow speed of their computer. Victims are asked to forward money to address the issue.
Microsoft or Apple – Victims are contacted and told that their computer and personal information have been compromised. The victim allows the caller to remotely access their computer and is asked to provide their bank information. Money is then transferred to an out-of-country account.
Rental Properties – Victims searching for a rental home often answer internet offers. Many times, criminals copy current real estate adds and have deposits forwarded to a fake account to secure the property.
Family member arrested – The victim, usually elderly, is contacted by phone and told that a family member has been arrested. To keep them from being transported to jail the victim purchases gift cards and provides the scratch off information.
Utilities – Victims are contacted by imposters and told that their power or cable will be shut off if an immediate payment is not made. The victim is directed how to make an immediate payment to a fraudulent account.
Puppies – With the upcoming holiday, many people are searching for puppies online. Be sure that you are buying from a reputable breeder.
IRS – Victims are contacted and told that they need to pay back taxes to avoid an immediate arrest. Victims are often asked to forward funds or purchase gift cards to alleviate the debt.
Township Police are asking residents to be mindful of these and other scams. Never provide personal, banking, or credit card information to someone who contacted you.
The scams are normally conducted through a masked phone number or from outside the United States leaving police with a limited chance of prosecution.
