City of East Grand Rapids issued the following announcement on Nov 18.
With the holiday season comes annual traditions, quality time with loved ones, plenty of shopping – and people looking to take advantage of others.
EGR Public Safety reminds residents to never disclose personal information such as Social Security and credit card numbers over the phone – no matter how convincing a story may be. Government agencies such as police departments and the IRS will NEVER ask for this data by phone or virtually.
If someone sends you a check and asks you to cash it and send the money to other people through PayPal, Venmo, Zelle or another money transaction platform or via an eBay, Target or other gift card, it is a scam.
If a stranger contacts you about a missing child or grandchild, hang up and call said missing person to verify their whereabouts and then follow up with Public Safety at 616.949.7010.
Additionally, the department recommends you make all Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace exchanges in a public space, such as the Public Safety lobby or Community Center parking lot to avoid sharing personal information such as your home address with strangers.
If you are ever unsure about a phone call, email or another form of communication you have received, please call Public Safety at 616.949.7010.
Original source can be found here.
Source: City of East Grand Rapids
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