The South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs (SCDCA) is warning the public that scammers are “spoofing” SCDCA telephone numbers in an attempt to seem more legitimate.
While reports never revealed exactly what the scammer was after, they did claim to represent a law firm and could be trying to collect a fake debt. Scammers use this tactic to scare a person into volunteering money or personal information. Consumers and businesses should keep the following tips in mind when fielding phone calls:
· Never reveal any personal information when fielding an unsolicited phone call. SCDCA will not contact consumers or businesses to attempt to collect a debt owed to another party.
· Don’t trust caller ID. It can be easily and cheaply altered. Scammers spoof caller id to make calls seem even more legitimate.
· Challenge the caller. Ask for their name and other defining details. If the caller claims to be with SCDCA, hang up and call us toll-free at 1-800-922-1594 to confirm they are who they say they are.
· Hold onto your cash! Never send money via untraceable means such as prepaid debit cards or wire transfer.
Consumers who receive government imposter phone calls are encouraged to contact SCDCA to report the scam. When reporting, be sure to include:
· Date and time of the call;
· Name of the government agency the imposter used; and
· What information they ask for, including the amount of money and the payment method requested.
To report a possible scam, please contact SCDCA’s Identity Theft Unit by calling 1-800-922-1594 or visiting www.consumer.sc.gov. For more information on phishing and telephone scams, visit SCDCA’s website and click “News Releases & Publications” then “SCDCA Spotlight.” Or visit http://www.consumer.sc.gov/Documents/SpotLight/Telephone_Scams.pdf
- ‘Light The Way For Hope’ Ceremony To Remember Those Lost To Overdose - August 22, 2024
- Berkeley County Opening Emergency Shelters Ahead of Debby - August 5, 2024
- Nearly Century-Old St. Stephen School To Be Torn Down - March 20, 2024
Recent Comments