In the last few weeks, Buckingham Township Police Department has received several calls from concerned residents. These residents were contacted by scammers who report that they are with a company affiliated with Publisher’s Clearinghouse and the like. These “companies” tell the person that they have won a car and millions of dollars. The scammers have information on the caller that is easily found on the internet. However, they use that information to make residents feel like what the caller is saying is actually true. If they know my name, it must be ok to give my information, right?

Absolutely not! These individuals are calling residents on both their home phone numbers or cell phone numbers and telling them that they need their banking information in order to give them the check. The scammer tells residents that they will be coming to their house to deliver the car and take them to the bank to sign some papers. Or that they need gift cards in order to send the money the resident supposedly won.

Protect yourself – and notify your parents or grandparents.  Unfortunately, these scammers target the older residents in our community.

• Do NOT provide any banking information or personal information over the phone.
• Do NOT give out computer passwords. These individuals are persistent. Scammers may use your bank account information to withdraw money from you.
• Be suspicious of anyone who claims you have won something, especially if you do not remember entering a contest.
• Call 9-1-1 immediately if somebody shows up in person. We have NOT had this happen, but want you to be aware.