By ANDREA VanVALKENBURG
Staff Writer
RAY BROOK — State Police are investigating a number of recent attempted scams in the area and are reminding residents to be extra cautious giving out their personal information and money.
The most recent attempts involve automated messages left on people's phones with callers claiming to be from financial institutions.
In the messages, people are asked to provide their personal information.
But, police said, most legitimate financial institutions never request that type of information over the phone.
If residents get these types of messages, police said, they are likely a scam and suggest that people contact their bank directly for verification.
Another scam that continues to plague the region is fake e-mails sent to people claiming their loved one or acquaintance is stuck abroad without money.
Usually the e-mails claim the person has been robbed or victimized by a crime and left stranded in a foreign country.
Police said several area residents have fallen for the scam and sent money without confirming the information with the supposed victim or their family.
Officials warn people not to send money without checking the facts and say residents should always contact a family member or mutual friend directly and verify whatever information was in the e-mail or message.
E-mail Andrea VanValkenburg at: avanvalkenburg@pressrepublican.com
