Scam Alert: Warren County Sheriff’s Office warns of scam calls

The Warren County Sheriff’s Office took to social media on Tuesday to warn of a call scam received by Lieutenant Stacy Rollison.

The announcement states Lt. Rollison received a call claiming to be from Costco travel. The scammer stated they were offering exclusive travel deals for card members. When the scammer was informed she was law enforcement, the scammer disconnected the call.

Scam calls have been an issue of concern, especially for those who are not aware of how to spot them. Spotting the signs of a scam is an important lesson to learn. One which everyone can benefit from.

Scamspotter deploys three basic steps to help spot these scams and protect people’s assets:

• “Slow it down” – Those attempting to scam an unsuspecting victim will often create a sense of urgency to resolve whatever story they present. Whether it be to pay taxes to the IRS with a Target gift card or pay non-existent jail fines with an Amazon gift card, they will do their best to try and rush their victim to do as they ask. Scamspotter recommends time is taken to ask questions and avoid being rushed.
• “Spot check” – Sometimes spotting the scam is as easy as looking up the name of the business on google and visiting their website. If someone in this situation is concerned the phone call may be valid, it’s advisable to contact them directly from a phone number provided on their website, and not indulge the person on the phone who initiated the call.
• “Stop! Don’t send” – As scamspotter points out, no reputable entity will demand immediate payment. Often, these hustlers will demand a gift card and may even threaten with jail time if the victim does not comply. If one owes a fine or the IRS, it is best to be the one to initiate contact with these entities to resolve any financial obligation.

Please stay aware and educated on the tactics used by these phony representatives. The Federal Trade Commission has resources to help identify and avoid phishing attacks, as well as methods of reporting such activity.