DeFuniak Springs Police have received multiple complaints of scammers trying to take advantage of city residents. Whether its “You won Publisher’s Clearing House and we need to collect the taxes” or “This is your grandson and I am in jail,” the ruse is ever changing. Swindlers will try everything to convince unsuspecting victims to send money to them. Here are some simple tips to help keep your money away from thieves this holiday season:
- Don’t give out personal of financial information to anyone you don’t know or trust.
- If it’s too good to be true, it probably is. Nothing is free…usually there is a catch that costs money or your personal information.
- If you did truly win something, the awarding party should not ask for money in order to get the prize. If they do, get a trusted person such as another family member involved.
- If a person calls representing your family member, ask them questions that only that person would know. Most of the time questions like this will cause the scammer to hang up or act as if they have a bad phone connection. Contact a relative who would know who the caller represents to be before sending money or giving personal information.
- If anyone asks you to purchase a prepaid card, money order, or provide account information online…Don’t do it! Contact a trusted family member or friend to discuss.
If in doubt, you can always contact your local law enforcement agency for assistance.