news-record.com

Yet another reminder to never give out your personal information on the phone. I haven't heard any reports of this scam going on here lately, but it's only a matter of time. Many calls like this usually target elderly residents, that's a reminder to look out for neighbors and family members and inform them of such scams.

Durham police report that local residents have been getting calls and emails claiming that they owe money for utility bills.

Police say these calls are fraudulent and warn residents to beware. When residents are contacted by these scammers, they are asked to provide their credit card number for payment. This information can be used to steal a person’s money and identity.

To avoid becoming a victim:

* Beware of phone calls or emails that ask for your personal information like your Social Security Number, credit card or bank account number. Legitimate companies will not ask you for this information this way.

* Never share personal financial information by email, even with someone you know and trust. Email can be vulnerable to hackers. If you need to share information with a legitimate company, use a secure Web site. Look for a lock icon on the Web site and a Web address that starts with “https."

* Report phishing calls or emails to the real business or organization that the scammer pretends to be. Contact the company using a telephone number or Web address you know to be right. Do not use the contact information given in the phone call or email. Also, forward phishing emails to the Federal Trade Commission at spam@uce.gov.

* Protect yourself quickly if you respond to a phishing phone call or email. Contact your bank and/or credit card company immediately. You could also be a victim of identity theft.

Source: N.C. Attorney General's Office