Full Notification

Be Aware of MoneyPak or Green Dot Scams

Every so often, Santa Clara residents fall victim to fraud involving MoneyPak or GreenDot reloadable cash cards.
The way the scam works, a suspect(s) poses as a City or Federal employee and reaches out to individuals over the phone stating they are owed money for a traffic ticket, income tax, warrant and/or past due utility bill. The suspect requests immediate payment, suggesting the easiest way to resolve the matter is to purchase a MoneyPak or Green Dot reloadable cash card (purchased at Walgreen’s, 7-Eleven, etc.). These cards are similar to cash and are not traceable. Once the victim provides the suspect with the numbers on the back of the card, they can immediately download the value of that card anywhere in the world.
Legitimate businesses would never ask you to pay in this way. If you question whether the call is valid, hang up and call the company via the customer service phone number on your bill.

If you have questions, contact the Santa Clara Police Department at (408) 615-4700.