By Jim Bloch
St. Clair County Sheriff Mat King is warning residents about three recent scams.
“Unfortunately, scams have become increasingly common,” said King in a Facebook post April 9. “The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office is committed to keeping the community informed and educated on ways to stay safe, including how to recognize and avoid scams. In the past few weeks, several new scams have come to our attention.”
The scammers used a range of avenues to contact potential victims: The U.S. mail, land lines and cell phones.
Unclaimed rewards
Several residents reported to the Sheriff’s Office that they received postcards in the mail saying that they had “unclaimed rewards.” The cards included a claim number. To claim a $100 reward, the card asked them to visit a website (membersagain.com) or call a specific number (1-888-325-3071).
“This offer is fraudulent,” the sheriff’s office said. “Victims report that the company requests banking or credit card information to cover a ‘service fee.’ The promised money or items are never received, and some individuals have reported unauthorized charges to their accounts.”
Nude photos
Another recent scam has targeted teenagers.
“Victims receive a text message from an unknown number containing images that appear to be of themselves,” the department said. “These images have been created using artificial intelligence to depict the victim nude. The sender then threatens to distribute the images unless they are paid a certain amount of money. In at least one case, payment was requested in Bitcoin.”
King encouraged parents to talk to their kids about this scam and warn them not to engage with electronic strangers or to send them money.
IRS scam
“Lastly, with Tax Day right around the corner, residents should be cautious of phone calls, text messages, emails, or letters from individuals claiming to represent the IRS and demanding payment,” the Sheriff’s Office said. “The IRS will not demand immediate payment over the phone or through gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.”
The department urged residents to verify the caller, texter or mailer. If the contact appears questionable, look up the official phone number of the named agency and call it.
If residents suspect a scam or can’t verify the contact, they may call the Sheriff’s Office’s non-emergency telephone number at (810) 985-8115.
“We will continue doing our best to keep our community informed and safe,” said King.
Jim Bloch is a freelance writer based in St. Clair, Michigan. Contact him at bloch.jim@gmail.com.
