Richland PD Says These are Scammer Signs to Watch For

As Americans are getting another stimulus payment, police are warning of scammers.

Scammers are using modern technology to identify themselves as someone else. They'll use a real name, such as a police department, the social security administration, IRS, or a utility company. Just so you know, the IRS or similar companies do NOT call asking for personal information or payment.

Sometimes scammers will tell you there is PROBLEM. They may say there is a problem with one of your credit card accounts and that they need to verify your information. Or, they may tell you that you have WON A PRIZE. Then, they'll say that you need to pay a fee to obtain that prize.

Scammers want you to act NOW. They will pressure you not to hang up so that you cannot verify their story. They may threaten to arrest you, sue you, or even deport you. They may tell you that your computer is corrupted.  None of this can happen.

Taking it a step further, scammers want to be paid in a very specific manner. A scammer will insist that you pay through a money transfer company or pay by putting money on a gift card, and then giving them the number on the back.

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If you receive an email or text from a company that you do business with and you believe it may be real, do NOT click on any links. Instead, contact the business on the phone. Do NOT call the number they gave you or the number on your caller ID.

Definite RED FLAGS:

NEVER pay anyone who insists that you pay with a gift card or by using a money transfer service. NEVER deposit a check and send money back to someone.

Call the Police if you believe you've been the victim of a scammer.