Romeoville Police Urge Residents To Watch Out For Scammers

ROMEOVILLE, IL – The Romeoville Police Department is urging residents to be on the lookout for scammers. Far too often, the police department receives complaints from victims who’ve been taken advantage of and their money stolen.

“Not all scams are that easy to detect,” said Commander Rob Fetzer during a newly released PSA by the department. “Never give out your social security number, bank numbers, PINs or passwords or other personal information.”

According to Commander Fetzer, here are some common scams to watch for:

1. Scams involving a loved one who is "in trouble or hurt"

In this scenario, police say the scammer calls and impersonates someone you know, lawyer or police officer or nurse explaining they need money for bail or a medical expense.

2. Scams claiming that you are in trouble and need to pay a fine to avoid being arrested

Police say in this scenario, scammer will call and impersonate the IRS or local law enforcement and demand payment for a fake fine for you to avoid being arrested.

3. Scams involving owing money for a utility bill

In this scenario, police say the scammer calls the utility employee requiring payment for a fake overdue bill

“These scams play on your fears and usually require you to take immediate action such as buying gift cards and giving them the number over the phone,” said Fetzer.

In other instances, the scammer may ask you to wire money to them. Law enforcement says that’s usually another big clue that a person is the target of scammers.

According to Commander Fetzer, here are some things to know to avoid becoming a victim:

1. Government agencies and utilities do not take gift cards as payments.

2. The IRS will not call you back about back taxes. They’ll send you a letter through the U.S. mail.

3. Do not answer calls from unfamiliar phone numbers.

4. If someone is calling about your credit or debit card, do not give any information to them.

“Remember these things and you’ll be just fine,” Commander Fetzer said.

To view the police department's new PSA on how to avoid becoming a scam victim, click here.