Did you know that the 804 Area Code is considered one of the top 10 area codes in the country for scam phone calls?
Be alert for scam phone calls like the examples below:
- You’ve won a contest with a large prize (sometimes from overseas). Just send the contest organizer money for “processing” fees. Legitimate contests don’t operate in this manner.
- You haven’t paid a bill (utility, credit card, etc.), a government fine or you’ve missed jury duty and your power or service will be turned off or you’ll be arrested if you don’t pay immediately over the phone with a credit card, a pre-paid debit card or by giving the caller your bank account information. The government and most companies do not operate this way. Call your credit card, utility company or local government using a number you know is correct and investigate the matter yourself before paying or providing information.
- One clear sign of a scam is the demand to wire money, use pre-paid debit cards or Bitcoin.
If you receive a call from an unknown or private number, it’s best to ignore it and let it go to voicemail. A live person answering these scammers sometimes encourages them to keep calling. Always make sure you’re absolutely sure you know who you’re dealing with over the phone or internet before committing any money, payments, or personal information.
If you’re ever in doubt about whether a call, demand, or offer is legitimate, contact the Ashland Police Department for assistance at (804) 365-6140.