Scam Jam Helps Bucks Co. Residents Avoid Fraud

BRISTOL TOWNSHIP, PA —They called it a Scam Jam.

Nearly 100 people gathered at the Bristol Township Senior Center Wednesday to hear from experts about common scams, when to report scams and fraud to the police, how and when to freeze a credit report, and how to bank safely online.

State Sen. Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and State Rep. Tina Davis (D-141) hosted the event in partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities to help constituents learn how to avoid becoming the victim of a scam or identity theft.

“Too often, constituents call my office to report that they’ve been the victim of a scam or identity theft,” Santarsiero said. “I’m excited to partner with the Department of Banking and Securities and Representative Tina Davis to raise awareness about common scams and provide resources and information to help our constituents protect their finances.”

Attendees heard from the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities about the steps to freeze credit, how to secure personal information in the digital age, and learn tips to avoid scams by not giving out personal information, not answering calls from unknown numbers, and taking time to consider offers and sales pitches in high-pressure situations.

A representative from the Bucks County Area Agency on Aging shared information on the agency’s ability to conduct investigations into abuse, neglect, and exploitation, and to make appropriate referrals to those who have been the victim of scams and fraud.

The Bristol Township Police Department urged residents to call the police when they think they’ve been the victim of a scam, noting that calling immediately is best but it is never too late to reach out.