This week's SCAM ALERT. The goal of this program is to educate the public on recent scams we have investigated.
SCAM 1: Victim located unauthorized withdrawals out of their checking account. Investigation revealed several of the victim’s checks had been stolen and used throughout the Muskegon area. The victim is unaware how the checks were stolen.
SCAM 2: Target has announced that any credit or debit card used in a Target store in the U.S. between November 27 and December 15 may have been compromised. The stolen information includes the customer’s name, credit or debit card number, and the card’s expiration date and three-digit security code (CVV). If you recently used your credit or debit card in a Target store, check your account for any unauthorized transactions.
Tips to Prevent Becoming a Victim:
Never provide personal information over the phone unless you know the company to be reputable.
During a transaction, keep your eye on your credit card. Make sure you get it back.
Never sign a blank receipt. Draw a line through any blank spaces above the total.
Frequently check your accounts to look for any unauthorized purchases.
Save your receipts to compare to your statements.
Keep your checks in a secure place.
Check your credit report at least once a year. You can use Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion to provide a free copy of your credit report every 12 months.
Notify your card issuer / bank of any unauthorized transactions.
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.
