Phone scams can cost you money and mental anguish, and three specific scams are on the rise in Lamorinda. According to the Moraga Police Department, the first scam involves someone calling to say that you owe money to PG&E and your power will be turned off unless you go to Safeway and send money or buy some type of gift card. PG&E representatives do not call and demand money or threaten to turn off power.
The second scam being perpetrated involves callers saying that a purchase has been made on an Amazon.com account, and asking the victim to call "support." This is a way to obtain account or credit card information. If you are concerned about an Amazon.com purchase log into your account directly.
Finally, residents are reporting receiving calls saying there is a problem with their bank account which is being investigated by the "Department of the Federal Reserve law enforcement branch" and a warrant is being issued for their arrest. The scammers ask for personal and banking information to clean out accounts.
If you have questions, hang up and contact the involved group using information that you obtain (i.e. PG&E's number from your bill or their website). Lastly, if you receive a call from a number you do not recognize, let it go to voicemail. If it is important, they will leave a message.
The second scam being perpetrated involves callers saying that a purchase has been made on an Amazon.com account, and asking the victim to call "support." This is a way to obtain account or credit card information. If you are concerned about an Amazon.com purchase log into your account directly.
Finally, residents are reporting receiving calls saying there is a problem with their bank account which is being investigated by the "Department of the Federal Reserve law enforcement branch" and a warrant is being issued for their arrest. The scammers ask for personal and banking information to clean out accounts.
If you have questions, hang up and contact the involved group using information that you obtain (i.e. PG&E's number from your bill or their website). Lastly, if you receive a call from a number you do not recognize, let it go to voicemail. If it is important, they will leave a message.
Reach the reporter at:
Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA