The Sacramento Police Department would like to remind the community to be aware of possible scams.  Below are some examples of common scams and schemes including tips on how to protect yourself from becoming a victim.     

Phishing Emails

·         Be cautious of emails in which the sender solicits money or personal information.  The email may attempt to deceive you into believing “you have just won a prize.”  The email will often request sensitive information prior to the victim collecting the purported winnings.

Theft by False Pretense

·         Be cautious of unknown callers stating that they represent the “IRS” and are demanding immediate payment of back-taxes with the threat of arrest. 

Recently, the Sacramento Police Department has received two reports of similar financial scams.  In both cases the suspect(s) claimed the victims owed unpaid taxes.  An alert bank teller recognized the possible scam, and notified police, when one of the victims attempted to withdraw money to send to the suspect(s).

Protect Yourself:

·         Use trusted and reputable companies – especially when doing business online.

·         Be cautious about keeping private information on tablets and smart phones which can be easily stolen or lost.

·         Check monthly statements for suspicious transactions.

·         Report unauthorized financial transactions to your bank, credit card companies, and the police as soon as you detect them.

·         Lastly, be cautious of anyone who requests your personal information.  No reputable financial institution or alike should solicit personal information without you initiating the transaction.

The Sacramento Police Department urges anyone that may have been a victim or have information regarding these types of scams to contact the dispatch center at (916) 264-5471 or Crime Alert at (916) 443-HELP (4357) or text in a tip to 274637 (CRIMES). Enter SACTIP followed by the tip information. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.