Beware Of These Telephone Scams

I hear about different scams that go on in the area and it upsets me! I think, "How could someone fall for this scam?" But, the fact of the matter is it happens. I found out about some telephone scams that are going on right now, and I wanted to pass along the information so you don't get taken advantage of.

1. Tax Scam
The caller, who says he is with the Internal Revenue Service, informs you that you owe money in back taxes and will be arrested if you do not pay. The caller ID number is fake and appears to be from Washington, D.C.

2. Debt Collection Scam
You receive a phone call from someone claiming that you have an unpaid debt. You are threatened with garnishments, lawsuits and even jail time if you don't pay now.

3. Sweepstakes/Prizes/Gifts Scam
The caller congratulates you for winning a prize in a sweepstakes, but to receive your prize, you must send money to cover the expenses associated with the delivery, processing or insurance of the prize. Guess what? There is no prize.

4. Tech Support Scam
A "technician" calls, claiming to have detected a virus or security threat on your computer. But don't worry! For a fee, he can log in to your PC and correct the problem remotely. Not only will this hacker steal the money you pay in the fee, but also gain access to your private passwords and other information on your computer.

5. Credit Card Scam
The scammer, who pretends to be from your bank or credit card issuer, claims you are eligible for a lower interest rate. In another variation on the scam, he tells you he wants to verify a recent credit card transaction. In both cases, the scammer asks you to provide your credit card number and security code for verification.

How can you protect yourself from telephone scams? Barbara Parrott McGinity, program director for the BBB Education Foundation, offers these tips:

• Stop answering every phone call you receive. Instead, screen your calls.
• Do not respond to pressure tactics.
• Never provide your personal information to strangers who call you on the phone.
• Never send money by wire transfer or prepaid debit card to someone you do not know or have not met in person.  ( Better Business Bureau)