*** Media Release *** SCAM ALERT!! Lake County Sheriff Mark Curran would like to remind everyone that there are a number of “scams” being perpetrated against the citizens of Lake County during this holiday season. The most common scam right now is the IRS SCAM. This is where you would receive a call from a person that identifies themselves as an Agent of the IRS. The “Agent” will tell you that you owe the IRS back taxes and then direct you purchase cash cards or “money packs”. Once you have purchased the cash cards the “Agent” will then empty the card and your money will be gone in seconds. Another common scam is one where you are called by an “attorney” from Canada or some other county claiming to represent one of your relatives and that he needs money in order to gain their release from jail. You will also be directed to purchase cash cards and… Your money will be gone in seconds. Always hang up and call the relative that is supposed to be in trouble before paying anyone on the telephone. All of these scams are being perpetrated by very sophisticated organized criminal organizations and are nearly impossible to track. Once your money is gone there is no chance that any prosecution will take place or that you will recover any of your stolen money. Most of these scams originate in India, Africa and assorted Asian countries but there have been some originating from the U.S. These are just two examples of the numerous “scams” that have taken place in Lake County over the last 12 months. These are in addition to the “Warrants Division” scam, the “Deed” scam, the “Federal Grand Jury Duty” scam and “FOP” scam that have been mentioned in many Lake County news publications lately. If anyone calls you claiming to need any form of payment via cash card, bank account or credit card information you are encouraged to hang up and notify your local Police Department. Remember that the IRS or any legitimate Police Agency will not ask for payment on the phone via cash cards, credit card or bank account information. In addition to the “phone scams” there have been a number of scams that have been perpetrated through the US Mail. Be cautious when answering any solicitation for money that you are not personally familiar with via the US Mail. Common sense is your best defense against these criminals. End of release.
Posted on: Tue, 16 Dec 2014 17:33:28 +0000
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