MSP offers tips to protect against scammers
The Michigan State Police Iron Mountain Post has put out a reminder to residents that scams can take many different forms but if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Most scams involve obtaining a victim’s personal information under false pretenses, the MSP advised in a news release. The scammer usually portrays a sense of urgency, pretending to be an official of a legitimate organization to fool a victim into providing personal information.
In a new twist, postcards are being sent to residents advising of a free meal at a local pizzeria while learning about the benefits of emergency transportation coverage. The cards advise, “seating is limited” and “to call and confirm your reservation now.” The local pizzeria that was listed, however, has no seating, as stated by the owner when they became aware of the scam
To avoid becoming a scam victim, the MSP recommends:
– Do not give personal information to unknown callers.
– Do not respond to unsolicited e-mails from unknown senders.
– Confirm the identity of a contact by independently speaking with the identified source, such as the bank, credit card company, government agency, etc.
– Use a reliable source, such as the phone book, to confirm the contact’s phone number or e-mail.
– Report any suspicious contacts to police.
— Iron Mountain Daily News