Fraud, ID Theft Protection & Consumer Protection

These links are helpful resources for our community to help protect themselves from common scams and theft schemes. 

Newest Fraud and Scam Information

A great resource for common scams and fraud schemes can be found at fraud.org or on the Federal Trade Commission website at FTC.gov. We will also do our best to keep you informed here about the trends we are seeing in our area. Check these sites regularly to stay aware of the latest methods criminals use to steal money and personal information. If you have been the victim of a scam, be sure to file a complaint with the FTC.

Imposter Scam

No government agency or law enforcement agency will call and ask for banking information over the phone. Law enforcement does not fundraise over the phone or accept court payments through gift cards or Western Union. Scammers posing as members of federal and local law enforcement are targeting Shelby Township residents and trying to separate them from their hard-earned money. If you receive a call from someone claiming to be a police officer who asks for donations or demands payment over the telephone, hang up and report the incident to the FTC.

Here is more helpful information on other common imposter scams: fraud.org/imposter_scams/

Elder Fraud

Fraud victims over 50 account for more than 57 percent of all fraud. Many members of our community have been, or may be, affected by elder fraud.

With this in mind, the following link provides a free and clear guide to help people avoid and detect elder fraud:
https://www.comparitech.com/blog/information-security/elder-fraud/

 Our friends at AllConnect have also created an informative guide for seniors on safe internet use. It includes an overview of common online scams targeting older adults, tools to help seniors get the most out of their internet access and tips and resources to avoid and report online scams. You can find the guide here: https://www.allconnect.com/blog/internet-basics-for-seniors