Sheldon, Iowa — It’s a new year, but there are still a variety of scams being perpetrated on the citizens of Sheldon, and Sheldon Police report that, unfortunately, citizens are falling prey to these scams.
Sheldon Police say people need to look for the red flags that are evident in these scams. They say some of the most obvious red flags include being asked to send cash to obtain cash, or to get gift cards and send them in the mail or send photos of gift cards through text messages or e-mails.
Police say if the situation sounds too good to be true, it’s another red flag you should be looking for . Sometimes the scammer claims to be someone you know, and might use your friend’s e-mail o other information. Instead of believing them, try making contact with that person to verify that it is actually them . More than likely you’ll be told they have no idea what you’re talking about.
A couple of weeks ago a local business stopped two incidents. Police say that in the first incident, someone was going to send $2,000 cash to obtain $48,000. The very next day they stopped an incident when a subject was going to send $20,000 cash by FedEx. Luckily, neither of these individuals lost their money.
Cops say that in talking with that business owner, it was learned that prior to the two most recent scams the business had stopped around $30,000 being sent by FedEx within the past year.
According to Sheldon Police, the reason these scammers use FedEx or UPS is that if they used to United States Postal Service they’d be committing a FEDERAL crime. So watch for that red flag.
Last week police say a scam was going around where the person claimed to be a local minister, and was asking members of local churches to buy gift cards. Police say these scammers have no values or morals, and will say and do ANYTHING to get your money.
The Sheldon Police Departments wants to make you aware that once you fall for a scam and send the money, it is GONE. It’s highly unlikely you’ll ever recover that money.
Sheldon Police say there are billions of dollars scammed from American citizens each year. They urge you to use common sense in dealing with people, and DON’T become a victim.
Here is a list of scams that Sheldon Police have dealt with in the last couple of years:
The IRS Scam – someone claiming to be from the IRS claims to have a warrant for your arrest because you owe back taxes and tell you to send the money to prevent your arrest.
The Power Company Scam – Someone claims to be with the power company claiming you are behind on your bill, and they will shut off the power unless you make an immediate payment.
The Grandparent Scam – Someone calls you claiming to be your grandchild stating that they’ve been arrested, and they need you to send bond money to get them out of jail.
The Lottery Scam – They tell you that you have won a large sum of money, or a car, but you need to send money to release the funds or get the car.
This is only a few of the scams Police have seen, there are many more out there.Again, cops urge you to use common sense. It’s YOUR hard-earned money at risk, DON’T LOSE IT. If you’re unsure about the situation, talk with your local law enforcement officials.
