Scam reported in Smith Township
Smith Township police are warning residents of a new twist on a scam after a 58-year-old woman received not only a call but a visit from a man claiming she owed money on a “payday” loan.
The woman said Wednesday that she first received a call Monday originating from a private number. The caller told her that she had missed several court dates and that she owed money on the loan.
“I only answered because I thought it might be my sister-in-law because sometimes her number comes up private,” she said. “He had all my information including Social Security number and bank card number.”
“He told me if I didn’t respond, he would show up at my home or work,” she added. “But he got that wrong, because I haven’t worked for two years.”
On Tuesday, a man who identified himself as “Jerry” showed up at the house. She said he had paperwork that he would not show her. He gave her a number to call, telling her she owed $800. After he left, she discovered $300 had been withdrawn from her bank account.
“My daughter checked my credit report and there was nothing on it,” she said. “I’ve never taken out a loan like that.”
“When the officer came, he said that if there was some sort of civil suit, it would have come in the mail,” she added. “I am also concerned because I often have my grandkids at the house. I just don’t want this to happen someone else.”
She said the man who came to her house was white, in his mid- to late 20s or early 30s, and wore a ball cap. He drove a white, midsized car.
Police Chief Bernie LaRue said that it is very concerning that someone actually came to her house.
“This is not good,” LaRue said. “Call 911 immediately. Don’t call the station because the officer may be on patrol and not in the office. We would rather check it out and have it be nothing.”
This is the time of the year when various scams are reported.
“This the time the ‘gypsies’ will start with home improvement and driveway paving gimmicks,” LaRue said. “One will keep the person distracted outside the house while the other will go inside and steal. They often have radios so they can communicate with each other.”
Anyone soliciting has to have a permit issued by the township, LaRue said.
“Ask to see the permit if a salesman comes to your door,” he added.
Columbia Gas Co. recently released information about people posing as utility workers. Utility company workers will not come to a home without making prior arrangements. They also wear identification badges.