YORK COUNTY, SC - Scammers are using a variety of tactics to trick individuals into giving away their personal information or money. It is important to be aware of these scams and to take steps to protect yourself.
Some common scams to watch out for include:
- Phishing emails or text messages that ask you to provide personal information or login credentials.
- Calls or messages from individuals claiming to be representatives of a government agency, such as law enforcement, the IRS or Social Security Administration.
- Requests for payment via gift cards or wire transfers.
- Offers of a "free trial" that requires you to provide credit card information.
To protect yourself from scams:
- Do not click on links or open attachments in emails or text messages from unknown senders.
- Do not provide personal information, such as your social security number or bank account information, to unsolicited callers or emailers.
- Do not pay for anything with gift cards or wire transfers.
- Do not provide credit card information for a "free trial" unless you are certain of the company's legitimacy.
- Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, emails, or messages, especially if they ask for money or personal information.
If you believe you have been the victim of a scam, contact the York County Sheriff’s Office or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at www.ftc.gov or 1-877-FTC-HELP. Remember, it is better to be safe than sorry when it comes to protecting your personal information and finances.