Print
Share page with AddThis

Fraud & Scams

Scam Alert

Incidents of fraud or attempted scams take place everywhere. They are not limited to one age group or geographic area. The types of scams may change, but the solutions remain the same through education and prevention. 

Exercise caution when confronted with unsolicited or unfamiliar calls or messages. If a caller or message claims association with an organization or company and seeks sensitive information, promptly end the communication and confirm its legitimacy by contacting the official entity through their recognized channels.

Below is a list of the most common scams our residents and businesses have fallen victim to.

  • Internal Revenue Service (IRS): Scammers call to demand payment for back taxes and threaten court action, lawsuit, or arrest. (The IRS only communicates by mail.)
  • Online shopping / Mobile Payment Services: Scammers allege problems with your account and request that you provide account information through fraudulent links or telephone calls. 
  • Utility Company Calls: Scammers will demand payment, or your power/gas service will be shut off immediately. 
  • Arrested or Kidnapped Relative: Scammers report a loved one needs to be bailed out of jail. (frequently used on grandparents).
  • Sweepstakes or Lottery winnings: The scammer demands that you send money upfront to pay taxes before collecting your winnings.
  • Computer Repair or Technical Support: Scammers will call or email you to report that you must address computer issues. 
  • Unemployment Fraud: Individuals utilize your personal information to file unemployment claims. 

Stay vigilant: Legitimate services never ask for payment through gift cards or cash transactions.

Steps to take if you have provided personal or account information or have been a victim of a fraud or scam: (Click the blue text to be directed)

  • Notify your employer (unemployment scam)
  • File an online unemployment fraud reporting form OR contact DUA Customer Service at 877-626-6800 (unemployment scam)
  • Immediately change your passwords for any affected online services or accounts.
  • Notify your financial institution if you have provided any account or card information.  
  • Report Identity Theft with the Federal Trade Commission and receive assistance with a recovery plan. The FTC has also launched a new fraud reporting portal. 
  • Place a fraud alert on your credit file. 
  • Request credit reports online and dispute any fraudulent transactions.
  • You may notify the consumer reporting agencies if you wish to freeze your credit.

Please contact us at 508-947-4422 if you have any questions, require further assistance, or wish to file a police report.