Indiana State Police Bremen Post is warning of IRS scams, the “Grandparent Scam”, and the “Lottery Scam” hitting our area.
A press release from the agency says they’ve been contacted almost daily by concerned citizens that have almost become victims of scams or had loved ones become victims of scams.
The caller claims that you have unpaid taxes and you need to pay or risk arrest. Many times you are directed to buy prepaid debit cards or wire money.
State Police saythe IRS will communicate via the mail and will not call you.
Another popular scam is the “Grandparent Scam.” In this scam you receive a call from a grandchild saying they need cash for an emergency. Many times this emergency is either because the “grandchild” is in jail or the hospital. Verify any type of family emergency with other family members.
The “Lottery Scam” is another scam that continues to deceive people. In this scam you may receive a call or email informing you that you won a lottery but in order to claim your jackpot you must first pay taxes by sending money, either by wiring money or prepaid debit cards.
State Police remind northern Indiana residents to never give out personal information such as date of birth, social security number or credit card number.
They say it is important for everyone to talk to their family about these phone scams and to have a plan in place should a scammer call you or someone you love. Because phone scams have become nothing short of an epidemic, being aware of potential scams is a great first step in protecting yourself from falling victim to one.
