Guilford Police Caution Residents About a New Scam

The Guilford Police Department shared the following information regarding a new scam targeting residents.

********Robo Calling Scam Alert********

Have you been receiving a robo call from a debt collection agency? Chances are it is not a legitimate company.

People all over the state have been getting scammed by robo callers claiming to be attempting to collect a debt. They will offer a ‘special deal’ if you ‘pay today’ and pressure you to make the deal to avoid civil litigation.

It is important to take the time to research the company to determine if they hold your debt. Often companies sell their debt to legitimate debt collection agencies but criminals are out their waiting to take advantage of that opportunity.

Call the company you owe the debt to and determine who the debt was sold to. This includes mortgage companies who often sell the loan even if you are current on payments. Make sure you know who you are talking to and call them directly.

Robo callers can disguise their numbers on caller ID and make it appear they are calling from your company. Make it a point to call them back at the number you know to be legitimate and never give your personal information over the phone to someone who called you. Legitimate companies will encourage a call back to their listed number while criminal entities will use pressure tactics to keep you on the phone.

If you have received a call like this, gave out personal information and feel it may not have been a legitimate company, call the Guilford Police at 203-453-8061. If you gave out your social security number it is also important to file a fraud alert or credit freeze with one of the three credit reporting agencies; Trans-Union (800) 916-8800, Equifax (800) 685-1111 or Experian (888) 397-3742.