Upper Allen Police Warn Of Scams Involving The Purchase Of Gift Cards

Recently, the Upper Allen Police have received numerous reports of scams involving the purchase of gift cards. These scams vary in their style, but they typically start over the phone and senior citizens are the usual targets.

Most involve someone calling who states that they are with “computer support” and the victim needs to renew virus protection for a home computer. Others involving pop-up windows on home computers where a message appears to be sent from Microsoft technical support indicating that a victim’s bank account was compromised and they can assist with recouping the lost money. The victim is instructed to go to a local merchant to purchase gift cards in $200 to $500 amounts.

Regardless of how the scam is perpetrated, if someone asks to purchase gift cards from companies such as Google Play, iTunes, Target, or Walmart, and then scratch off the number on the back and provide it over the phone, it is guaranteed to be a scam.

Township residents are warned to be cautious of these scammers and pay attention to details such as complicated technological terms or company names that cannot be verified by a Google search. The scammers also use intimidating tactics and might tell the person to not call the police.

Here are some tips for ensuring you do not become the next victim:

-Don’t answer the phone if you don’t recognize the number
-Ask yourself if it sounds legitimate or if it is too good to be true
-Let a family member know and ask for their opinion
-Be suspicious of someone who sounds like they are in a call center and reading from a script
-Note that multiple reports have been made that scammers often speak with a foreign accent
-NEVER allow someone to remotely control your computer

If you do not believe that you would ever fall victim to one of these scams, please consider taking a few minutes to talk to your parents, grandparents, or neighbors who may be more vulnerable. We hope to keep Upper Allen residents from becoming fraud victims through increased awareness.

If residents have concerns or have been victimized by this scam, they are encouraged to contact Police at (717) 795-2445.