Staff Writer
HOULTON — Houlton Police are warning the public to be wary of checks they receive in the mail.
Officer Steve Nason said last week that the department has seen an increase check scams targeting people in the area. Techniques vary, but the victims typically receive a check from some unknown source. After an individual cashes the check, they’re contacted for verification of their bank account information. With that information, scammers withdraw all the funds in a personal account.
“In the last few weeks, we’ve seen an increase in this type of scam,” said Nason. “Some people have actually given their account information over the phone and then … found their account completely wiped clean.”
Some check schemes claim the recipient has one some type of prize. Others aren’t as elaborate.
“In one case, a $4,000 check came UPS all by itself,” explained Nason. “Whoever sent it will probably try to contact this person later on, saying they have another check but need to confirm the account number. And then, of course, they’ll wipe out whatever’s in the account.”
Often, scammers will simply contact a victim pretending to be a business seeking account numbers or Social Security numbers.
“We just want to warn people not to give out any of that information,” he said.
A strong dose of caution can be key to keeping personal accounts safe.
“A good rule to go by is: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” added Nason.
Anyone who seeking more information can contact the police at 532-2287.
