Scottsboro PD Warns of Phone Scams Visit Local Natural Monument

By Marla Jones Managing Editor marla@southerntorch.com

SCOTTSBORO, Ala.-- The Scottsboro Police Department has received several reports from citizens that have received calls from someone claiming to be with the Scottsboro Police Department requesting money.

Scottsboro Police want you to know that this is a scam.

Scottsboro Police Department will never call you and request money from you.

If you receive a call from someone claiming to be with the Scottsboro Police Department and they are requesting money, please hang up and call the department at (256)574-3333.

Citizens across the country often fall for these scams and lose a lot of money, sometimes their entire life savings. Scammers have figured out countless ways to steal your money over the phone. In some scams, they act friendly and helpful. Other times, they might threaten or try to scare you.

Here are a few tips to help you recognize a phone scam.

• If a caller says that you were selected for a prize or you have won the lottery, and you only have to pay to get the prize won, it is a scam.

• Local law enforcement or federal agencies will not arrest, fine, or deport you if you do not pay taxes or some other debt immediately.

• Legitimate businesses will give you time to think over their offer and supply written information before you commit.

Take your time and do not be pressured into making a hasty decision.

• Scammers will often ask you to pay by wiring money, or by sending prepaid or gift cards. Anyone who asks you to pay in this manner is a scammer.

• Government agencies will not call to confirm your sensitive information, such as a Social Security number.

If a company is selling something, it will need your written permission to call you with a robocall. Register with the National Do Not Call Registry to stop live sales calls from companies you have not done business with before.

You can also contact your phone provider to enroll in call blocking.