Beware of Phone Scams in Northport

Several residents have received questionable phone calls over the past two weeks, according to Northport Village Police.

Police want to advise residents that if they receive calls from the IRS requesting personal information— such as your social security number, payment via Western Union, direct withdrawal from your bank account, your mother’s maiden name— it is a scam.

Residents should not give away any personal information.

Other possible identity theft scams include:

• Calls saying your child or grandchild has been kidnapped or arrested and you need to hand over money for his or her release.
• Utility company scams (PESG and National Grid) will call and say they are going to turn your power or gas off if you don’t pay them.
• Ebay or craigslist scams will send you a check for more money than the item is worth and ask you to deposit the check and send them money back. The check will bounce after you send them the money. They will also ask you to send it via Western Union, direct withdrawal from your account or money cards.

If someone calls you and it sounds similar to any of these scams, notify the police and do not hand over your personal information.

Questions? Contact Northport Police at 631-261-7500.