Tips to quash scammers

By Chief Steven J. Wojnar
Dudley Police Department

In today’s world, there are a number of phone, computer, or mail “scams” taking place.  People can unwittingly become a victim of a larceny or identity theft by providing personal or bank information.  I recently became personally involved in one of these activities.  Some of the information provided to me at that time was very interesting.  I wanted to bring this to your attention, in the event you may have received a similar call.

One evening, my wife received a call on her cell phone.  It began with a recorded message informing her of “a rise in crime in your neighborhood” and advising her to press the number 1 to speak with a representative.  By obtaining some further information, we learned the call was apparently generated by a company selling home security systems.  Since I may be a person who would have information on this subject, my wife turned the call over to me.  When I questioned the information provided in the recorded message, the representative told me he was not aware of its content.  He could not provide me with the source of the company’s statistics.  He also did not know where my neighborhood was located.  Soon after this, the call was ended abruptly.  In researching the company and phone number, it appears there were several complaints about similar activity.  It is also alleged some people were asked for their credit card numbers in order to place a deposit on a security system.

A call of this nature can cause the person receiving it a great deal of concern.  Is there truly a rise in crime in my neighborhood?  Are you and your family “safe” or in serious danger?  These questions will naturally go through a person’s mind.  False or inaccurate information cannot be given simply to make a sale.   

Unfortunately, calls of this nature take place daily across the country.  Try to avoid conducting business over the phone unless you are sure of the people you are dealing with.  If everything is legitimate, there should be time to research the company and the offer.  You can then contact them if you choose.  If you question crime or activity in your neighborhood, ask the proper authorities.  They can provide you with accurate information relative to your particular situation.  Some simple steps can allow you to make informed decisions and avoid becoming a victim.

Thanks again for your questions and comments.  Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department, 71 West Main St. Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  Opinions expressed in this weekly column are those of Chief Wojnar only and unless clearly noted, do not reflect the ideas or opinions of any other organization or citizen.