Local police report holiday scams

It’s the season of giving— and unfortunately, taking.

Clear Lake police report approximately 25 scams have surfaced since Oct. 1.  Most have been unsuccessful, however, a few have resulted in stolen personal information or money.

“In most cases, the reporting person was able to determine the caller was a possible scammer and no loss occurred,” said Clear Lake Police Chief Pete Roth.  “However, there have been a small number of incidents where personal information and/or money was provided to the callers.”

Roth explained that some of the common phone and internet scams experienced in our area are:

•The Internal Revenue Service (IRS):  A caller makes a general claim that you owe back taxes and requests immediate payment, usually through a credit or debit card.  The call may contain a threat of court action if payment is not made.

•Grandparent:  The caller will claim a family member is in immediate need of money or is in jail.

•Winner of a prize: You will receive a phone call congratulating you on winning a prize, like a cruise.

•Tech support: A call or email notice is received, stat-

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ing your computer has received a virus. You are asked to click on a link to provide some information.

“In these cases, the caller or emailer is requesting money, access to your financial institution, gift cards, or other personal information,” said Chief Roth.

“Scammers want personal or your financial information, including your Social Security number.  Never provide these details unless you are sure you know you are speaking with a trusted source,” advised Clear Lake Police Detective Jim O’Keefe.

O’Keefe recommends:

•If you receive a phone call and are unsure of the number, let it go to voicemail.

•Do not open emails when you do not recognize the sender.

•Be cautious opening attached website links in emails.

•Do not tell callers your passwords to email, social media accounts, or financial institutions, including your ATM PIN.

If you think you have been “scammed” contact the Clear Lake Police at 641-357-2186, or your local law enforcement agency.

There are many more scams occurring across the state.

“Remember, if it is too good to be true, it probably is,” added O’Keefe.

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