The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office is sending a message to residents: Beware of financial scams and fraud.
Detective Joe Monger, a key figure in the County’s community outreach efforts, is leading the charge by educating the public through informational presentations. The goal is to arm Ottawa County citizens with the knowledge to recognize and to avoid falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.
Fraudsters typically rely on two main tactics to deceive their victims:
Creating a sense of urgency, often claiming the victim needs to send money quickly.
Requesting personal information, such as Social Security numbers or bank account details.
Several types of scams currently targeting residents include technology scams, social media fraud, romance scams, government impostors, and the so-called “grandchild scam.”
Exercising caution is crucial, particularly when dealing with phone calls, emails, or social media messages. Legitimate government agencies will never solicit money over the phone. If you are unsure about a call, hang up and contact the agency directly to verify the information.
“Social media is a breeding ground for fraudsters,” Monger said. “Be cautious, never share your personal information over the phone, and if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.”
“These frauds are designed to take your money,” Monger added. “A lot of times there is a disbelief when someone is the victim of a scam. It is important that you report it.”
Stay vigilant and take proactive steps to protect yourself and your family from fraud. For more information or to inquire about a session for your group email jmonger@miottawa.org or call 616-738-4000.
Detective Joe Monger shares valuable insights into how scammers operate during a Financial Scams Seminar in Allendale held in November.
|
