CHBPD warn area residents of an uptick in local scams
It seems for every convenience technology has brought to society, so too has it spawned another scam opportunity. In Clifton Heights Borough, those battling against a never-ending onslaught of calls, emails, and propositions have seen an uptick in scamming in recent weeks.
Clifton Heights Borough Police Department has offered its advice on the matter to help residents stay safe and protect their finances and identities. It starts with a bit of common sense.
“The PD noted an increase in phone scams reported over the last couple weeks. First and foremost, government agencies such as the police department, sheriff’s department or other LE agencies will NEVER cold call you for payment of fines immediately,” said CHBPD, as posted to Facebook.
In addition to never asking for payment via a cold call, the same type of departments are not going to ask for suspicious forms of payment, either, the police warned.
“We will not instruct you to do wire transfers or use payment options like bitcoin,” said the department’s post.
It isn’t just imposters of well-known agencies that have been counterfeited.
“Other recent reports included mortgage companies and utilities demanding immediate payments in the same manner,” said CHBPD.
And phone calls are not the only method of contact, according to the local police.
“Lastly, sometimes the scammers may TEXT you an official looking letter,” said the department via its own social media pages. “It is fraudulent.”
Police said that if you are the potential victim of such scams, be smart.
“If you receive a suspicious call, hang up immediately,” said the post. “The longer you entertain their request, the more likely you may fall for the scam.”
While reporting any suspicious activity to police can be helpful, they’d far rather local residents avoid being scammed in the first place.
“It is unlikely that victims will ever have their money returned to them,” said the CHBPD. “Be smart, just hang up.”
If you are ever unsure a caller or texter is legitimate, it can also be advisable to hang-up and call the offices yourself. If a call came properly from a governmental office, you should have no problem recalling them via their online, listed phone number.
