SCAM UPDATE- Handling Scam Calls, Fake Checks, Imposter Scams

With the revelation of the kidnapper scam in Snohomish County, here are some updates on scams around our area:

How to Handle a Scam Call. The Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC) has some advice on how to handle a scam call:

·         If your phone rings, and you do not recognize the number, do not feel obliged to answer the call.

·         You do not have to call back.

·         Greetings are often the trigger for the scam phone call.

·         The best office is a good defense.

·         No one is entitled to your information over the phone.

For more details, go to,

ITRC:

http://www.idtheftcenter.org/Scams/how-to-handle-a-scam-call.html?utm_content=bufferbd2e1&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer

Fake Check Scams. Scammers will find an excuse to send you a check, “hire” you for a job or tell you that you won a sweepstakes. But the check is for more than what you are supposed to receive. Their solution, keep what they owe you and send them the difference. Eventually, the check bounces and you are out your money. For more, take a look at this link,

Better Business Bureau:

https://www.bbb.org/fakecheckscam?utm_source=twitter

Oh, and it isn’t just the average person that receives these checks. Here is a story about the King County Sheriff, John Urquhart, receiving a fake check,

KIRO-TV:

http://jessejones.com/story/scammers-attempt-old-trick-on-the-king-county-sheriff/

Imposter Scams are Increasing.  The IRS says that it has been able to reduce the number of fraudulent tax returns, but the Federal Trade Commission says that it has seen an uptick in the number of imposter scams.

This video talks about the problem and what to look out for. Hint: just hang up.

CBS News:

http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/telephone-fraudsters-asking-for-money-a-growing-concern/

While the kidnapping scam received publicity locally this week, it is a national problem also as noted by this Federal Trade Commission alert,

Federal Trade Commission:

https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/scammers-even-impersonate-kidnappers?utm_source=govdelivery