Scammers Who Claim They're Relatives
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Posted: 4:58 PM Feb 8, 2010
Scammers Who Claim They're Relatives
Two Kansans have already been victimized in Coffey County. Read this advice from the attorney general on how you can avoid becoming the next victim.
Reporter: From 13 News
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TOPEKA -- Attorney General Steve Six is warning Kansans today about a new scam reported in Coffey County. Coffey County Sheriff Courtney Lind reported two people already victimized.

The scam starts with a phone call from a male caller either claiming to be a grandson in jail or a bonding company calling on behalf of a grandchild. The caller claims that the relative needs $2,500 to bond out of jail. They request that the money be wired to the caller through Western Union. This is a scam and consumers should not send money to the caller.

Tips:
* Take the time to investigate claims. If you think what a stranger is telling you might be true, investigate before giving them personal or financial information. Be sure to verify their phone number yourself through the phonebook.

* Do not wire money to anyone unless you are absolutely sure it is someone you know and trust. Once wire funds are picked up, there is little law enforcement can do.

* Don’t send a check, cash, or money order or give out your account information to anyone insisting on immediate payment.

* Don’t let anyone rush you into making a decision. Take your time to ask questions and gather information about the callers claim. Scam artists typically will not take the time to provide additional information.

If you receive a similar call, report it immediately to local law enforcement or to the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division at 1(800) 432-2310.

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