BOURNE – The Barnstable County Sheriff’s Office warns citizens to be aware of the increase in scams and fraud in the summer months. According to the Sheriff’s Office, a local chimney sweep alerted the Office that a telemarketer was fraudulently fundraising on behalf of the Barnstable County Sheriff’s Office.
“Not so,” says the Sheriff James Cummings. “We’re not fundraising for any organization or any program, and if we were it wouldn’t be a telephone solicitation.” Sheriff Cummings reminded recipients that when calls seem suspicious, it’s usually for a good reason. He also conveyed the following advice:
Don’t give away any information to anyone you don’t know and have no reason to trust. “Especially not Social Security numbers or credit and/or debit card numbers.”
- If a call sounds legitimate but you’re not sure, there’s absolutely no rush to depart with your hard-earned money. Ask the caller for a website or phone number that will enable you to call back and do your own check of the organization.
- If you do call back, ask questions, starting with “Are you currently conducting a telephone fundraiser?” If you’re still not convinced, probe deeper until you’ve satisfied your curiosity. If you’re left with the tiniest bit of doubt, don’t give away anything.
- Hanging up on a sales call is not rude. It’s financial self-preservation.
Media release furnished by Barnstable Sheriff’s Office
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