The City of Independence released a statement on its Facebook page on Tuesday about an increase in scam calls and emails being reported to the city police department.
“Current scam examples are tech support, PayPal, and lottery scams,” the statement reads. “Victims are giving personal banking information and purchasing gift cards to make payments. Never give any personal information over the phone or email, unless it is verified that you are speaking with the legitimate source.”
The statement provides some tips for preventing scams:
• Recognize scam attempts and end all communication with the perpetrator.
• Search online for the contact information (name, email, phone number, addresses) and the proposed offer. Other people have likely posted information online about individuals and businesses trying to run scams.
• Resist the pressure to act quickly. Scammers create a sense of urgency to produce fear and lure victims into immediate action. Call the police immediately if you feel there is a danger to yourself or a loved one.
• Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, mailings and door-to-door services offers.
• Never give or send any personally identifiable information, money, jewelry, gift cards, checks or wire information to unverified people or businesses.
• Make sure all computer anti-virus and security software and malware protections are up to date. Use reputable anti-virus software and firewalls.
• Disconnect from the internet and shut down your device if you see a pop-up message or locked screen. Pop-ups are regularly used by perpetrators to spread malicious software. Enable pop-up blockers to avoid accidentally clicking on a pop-up.
• Be careful what you download. Never open an email attachment from someone you don’t know, and be wary of email attachments forwarded to you.
• Take precautions to protect your identity if a criminal gains access to your device or account. Immediately contact your financial institutions to place protections on your accounts, and monitor your accounts and personal information for suspicious activity.
You can also report scammers to the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office of Consumer Protection by calling (888)432-9257 or by filling out their online contact form.
The post Independence Police Department warns residents of scam calls and emails appeared first on LINK nky.
