Pine Bluff Police Warn of Prize Scams

The Pine Bluff Police are warning people not to respond to unsolicited emails, text messages or telephone calls that claim you have won a prize.

 Several unsuspecting people have mailed or wired money to claim prizes but have lost their money.

Police are asking victims to report this type of fraud to the Attorney General's Office and the Federal Trade Commission.

Purchasing or selling an automobile on the internet will sometimes result in a fraudulent attempt to get your money.

Offers to ship a vehicle or a story about a departing service member are usually fraudulent.

A general rule is, if the deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Law enforcement never calls, sends emails or text messages to ask anyone to send in money to pay a fine or warrant.

If you are suspicious of a telemarketer fundraising call claiming to be affiliated with law enforcement, the agency in question can help verify the legitimacy of the group and if a fundraising campaign is actually occurring.

Be cautious of using individuals to do plumbing, electrical or heating, ventilation and air conditioning work.

There are many reputable businesses in Pine Bluff that are bonded and have licensed technicians to do this type of work.

If you do decide to use an individual, consider checking with the City Collector to see if they have a business license.

Also check with the state agency that regulates that trade to see if they are properly licensed.

The Arkansas Department of Labor licenses electricians and the Arkansas Department of Health licenses plumbers and HVAC technicians.

Be aware of mystery shopper programs.

Most of these are also fraudulent, despite the advertisement being run in the newspaper.

If you receive a check and are asked to cash it and send back money, it is a scam.

Furthermore, when the check is determined to be counterfeit, you may be at risk of criminal prosecution.