Georgia county law enforcement warning about phone scam

Officials in Georgia are warning about a potential scam that could drain a consumer's checking account or lead to their identity being stolen.

According to television station WALB, Albany resident Marilyn Womack has been getting calls from scammers claiming to be with the Treasury Department. The thieves on the other end of the line claimed she could get $7,000, as long as she provided her checking account number.

Womack told the television station she was didn't believe the false-sounding promise of free money.

"No, not even the government," Womack said. "[They're] good at taking it, but not giving it."

Investigators in the Dougherty County Sheriff's Department said others have reported similar scams. Officials say the scams are, in fact, too good to be true.

Both sheriff's officials and other experts note consumers should avoid any promises of free money, whether they come over the phone or via email. These are often phishing scams, which attempt to steal money or information from an account holder.

In addition, consumers should make sure they properly dispose of their account statements and credit card bills, as these could be a source of information for thieves.

Posted in: Banking, Checking Accounts

Banking News: This article was published on 10-12-2010 at 8:34 am.

View comments