Crime & Safety
Local Scam: Fake Debt Collectors Claim Unpaid Bills Due, San Mateo Police Warn
Officers also received reports of another fraud in which the suspects claim to be from PG&E calling to "collect delinquent balances," according to police.
By Renee Schiavone and Bay City News Service:
San Mateo police are warning the public of recent scams from callers who inform the victims of unpaid bills.
"In January, San Mateo Police received several reports where victims received unsolicited calls from unknown suspects, who identified themselves as employees of official sounding financial businesses or agencies, demanding that the victim wire or send money for a non-existent debt," police announced.
The suspects in the fraud seemed to target people who don't speak English and threatened arrest or deportation, police said.
Officers also received reports of another fraud in which the suspects claim to be from PG&E calling to "collect delinquent balances," according to police.
The caller threatens to shut down the victim's electricity within the hour unless they provide the serial number of a pre-paid money card, police said.
The suspects are known to provide instructions to the victims on how to obtain the card, according to police. Police are warning the public to be wary of callers who request money sent through a wire service or to another country.
The public is also advised to report any threats of arrest or deportation from scammers to law enforcement, police said.
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