Posted by the Ames Police Department:
Holy cow, the lengths these people will take. We have had a number of people report SCAMS to us again. One person reported that a person claiming to be a law enforcement officer told her that she had some Federal charges and needed to call to clear it up. Luckily our victim was smart enough to smell this SCAM and did not give any information. So, because we don’t like this stuff, Commander Huff called this “Federal Legal service” to get some information (512-375-3586). When he started asking some questions about who they were, he was put on hold, and the music was horrible. He got tired of waiting and called back and got an answering service. I guess they did not want to talk to a legitimate law enforcement officer.
Other people have reported they have been called by financial institutions reporting their account would be locked and they need to call to clear it up. Again, they are just trying to get your personal information.
Last, Publisher’s Clearing House is not going to call you to send them money to get your prize. If a van pulls up, they have flowers and balloons, and a huge check, take the money and run. Otherwise, it is probably a SCAM. Please don’t give out personal information over the phone.
Please, please, please, don’t be a victim of these SCAMS. Don’t give out personal information over the phone. If it sounds too good to be true…..