Each week we post scams that were reported to NSPD. The goal of this program is to educate the public on recent scams we have investigated.
Highlighted Scams
Scam 1: Victim received a phone call from a subject claiming to be from the American Missing Children’s Fund. The suspect was requesting donations and personal information. Upon being questioned, the suspect provided a website to reference but it was found to have nothing to do with the organization. The suspect then hung up.
Scam2: Victim received a phone call from a subject claiming to be her grandson. The victim immediately questioned the suspect who then threatened the victim and hung up.
Scam 3: Suspect befriended the victim on social media sites and requested the victim to pick up paid merchandise from Best Buy and then send them to him in Africa. Best Buy had been alerted to the fraud and fraudulent purchases.
TIPS TO PREVENT BECOMING A VICTIM
If you are asked to pay any money out of pocket before a prize will be released to you or service completed, it is a scam. It is also illegal under federal law.
Never pay money from your bank account or through money wire payments or payment cards like Green Dot, MoneyPak, PayPal, or any other cards or form of payment unless it is to someone you trust and are familiar with.
Never provide personal information over the phone or by email unless you are confident it is to a reliable source.
Be suspicious of anyone asking you to send money.
Report all suspicious activity to your local police agency. Norton Shores Police Department can be reached at 231-733-2691 or 911 after business hours.
