Identity Theft Alert: Identifying a Scam
Identifying a Scam:
When receiving phone calls, texts or email, consider this:
1. How are you being told to pay?
Legitimate businesses will NEVER demand crypto, gift cards, or cash via transfer apps to settle a debt! Hang up or delete!
2. Are you being threatened?
Legitimate businesses will NEVER threaten arrest or deportation if you don’t pay them. Neither will the government. If they do, they’re lying!
3. Is it urgent? Emotional?
Scammers use urgency and panic while making victims believe they or a family member will be harmed financially if they don’t act immediately. It’s a scam!
4. Don’t trust your caller ID!
Scammers can make any name or number show up on your caller ID. That’s called spoofing!
5. Phishing: Don’t take the bait!
Phishing is when you get emails, texts, or calls that seem to be from companies or people you know. But they’re actually from scammers. They want you to click on a link or give personal information (like a password) so that they can steal your money or identity, and maybe get access to your computer.
Please discuss this topic with family members, friends, and neighbors. A common part of the identity theft scam ruse is the victim is instructed not to tell anyone about the incident. Part of the discussion you have with those close to you should involve the need to resist the pressure from the scammer to act immediately! Establish a network for yourself and those around you that may be vulnerable to these scams so they have a plan.
Helpful Identity Theft Resources:
Federal Trade Commission Identity Theft and Online Security
Better Business Bureau: 10 Steps to Avoid Scams
If you have any questions, or would like to report an incident that has occurred, please contact the North Castle Police Department at 914-273-9500. You can also stop in to the Police Department at 15 Bedford Road, Armonk, to report an incident or ask a question.
Address/Location
Town of North Castle Police Department
Town Hall
Armonk, NY 10504
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 914-273-9500