Consumer office issues new warning about scams
The Governor's Office of Consumer Protection has issued a warning about sweepstakes scams aimed at the elderly, saying they have taken a scary turn.
Typical scams tell consumers by mail, phone or e-mail they have won a sweepstakes award, but they must first send in money to cover expenses or taxes -- and the prize never materializes. Now, scam artists are telling consumers they will come to their homes to escort them to the bank and are threatening them with harm, said Administrator John Sours, who urged consumers to call police if this occurs.
"The new slant we are seeing now is the use of intimidation tactics," Sours said. “Scammers are telling consumers they will come to their house to escort them to the bank. Several consumers who have confronted the caller about it being a scam have been threatened that harm would come to them or their families.”
The Office of Consumer Protection said anyone who receives a fake sweepstakes solicitation or has been the victim of a sweepstakes scam can contact the office at 404-651-8600 or 1-800-869-1123.
About the Author
Bill Rankin has been an AJC reporter for more than 30 years. His father, Jim Rankin, worked as an editor for the newspaper for 26 years, retiring in 1986. Bill has primarily covered the state’s court system, doing all he can do to keep the scales of justice on an even keel. Since 2015, he has been the host of the newspaper’s Breakdown podcast.
