Scam Artists Target Avon Lake Residents

AVON LAKE, OH — Four Avon Lake residents were targeted in fraud and identity theft scams in recent weeks. Robocalls and Internet hoaxes are the most common ways people are tricked into giving out their personal information.

“If someone contacts you and wants a payment, computer access or account information, end the conversation and contact us right away,” said Cuyahoga County Director of Consumer Affairs Sheryl Harris. “Scammers are smooth-talkers, but we can help you identify and report a scam.”

Here are the details on the most recent scam ploys in Avon Lake.

Fraud, Feb. 6 — Someone used an Avon Lake man's credit card information to make purchases at a Virginia Walmart and Jersey Mike's Subs. Both Walmart and the man's credit card company are aware of the purchases and the resident was issued a new credit card.

Identity Theft, Feb. 9 — A Verizon cell phone account was opened using an Avon Lake resident's personal information. Police took the resident's statements and have acquired copies of the account's billing statements.

Identity Theft, Feb. 12 — A Jaycox Road resident's personal information was used to open two accounts with a home improvement store.

Fraud, Feb. 12 — Someone gained access to an Avon Lake resident's bank account. There was unusual activity in the account, but no money was actually lost. The bank asked the resident to file a police report to make a record of the activity.