Sheriff warns residents of phone scam

Union County Sheriff Scott Harvel wants to alert residents to another phone scam.

According to the Illinois Sheriffs' Association, a phone campaign is fraudulently using the name of the Illinois Sheriffs' Association in their solicitation. 

The Illinois Sheriffs' Association never solicits by phone but does conduct a direct mail campaign throughout the state of Illinois endorsed by the individual sheriffs across Illinois.

Phone solicitors who want the receiver to "act immediately" or are offering a "too good to be true" opportunity are most likely fraudulent. 

If there are any doubts, just hang up.

Those who receive these phone calls have the right to ask for the following information:

The name, address and phone number of the organization for which they are soliciting.

The name, address and phone number of the telemarketing firm.

The percentage of every dollar paid to the telemarketing firm.

Insist on something in writing prior to making a pledge or commitment.

If these questions are not answered, do not hesitate to hang up the phone. 

Although, there are some legitimate organizations that use telemarketers for their fundraising efforts the Sheriffs of Illinois, through the Illinois Sheriffs' Association, are adamantly opposed to police groups and associations using telemarketers in their fundraising efforts. 

If a call like this is received from someone saying they represent the local sheriff or the Illinois Sheriffs' Association and are asking for donations, contact the sheriffs office immediately or gather as much information from the caller and report it to the Illinois Sheriffs' Association at ISA@ilsheriff.org.

Tips

Offers too good to be true usually are. Ask to receive the “unbelievable deal” or the “amazing prize offer” in writing before making a commitment. 

Never give out personal information over the phone or internet.

Legitimate business callers will never ask for this information over the phone. 

If a caller asks for payment for an offer in advance or asks for a credit card number or social security number, tell the person you don’t give out personal information over the telephone. 

Legitimate telemarketers won’t be turned off by these techniques.