It seems like scammers keep coming up with new ways to convince you to give them your money. We spoke with the Director of the Bureau of Consumer Protection with the Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection, Michelle Reinen who told us the variety of scams out there. “Just as scammers will impersonate the IRS, and Medicare and the utility companies, they are out there impersonating real popular names that entice consumers,” Reinen explained. “Something that will entice you, and excite is to impersonate Publishers Clearing House because everyone wants to win that sweepstake.”
She went on to explain the Publishers Clearing House Scam, saying “They call and act as though they are Publishers Clearing House and let you know that you have won. You just need to take action, by sending some money by wiring it to pay for fees and taxes in order to collect your prize.” Reinen elaborated, saying that most people that report the scam are saying they are offering a Cadillac.
Always remember, if something seems too good to be true, chase are it probably is. It is also very important to report any time you believe you have been targeted for a scam.
