OC chief gives advice about handling scams

From staff reports

The Oil City Police Department has received complaints about a Social Security scam via telephone.

A local woman told the newspaper she received a call that was “threatening” and directed her or her attorney to immediately get in touch with them about a Social Security problem. She reported the call to local authorities as well as federal agencies that deal with complaints regarding Social Security scams.

Oil City police Chief Dave Ragon said his department regularly handles complaints dealing with Social Security as well as IRS topics.

“Social Security and the IRS do not call you,” said Ragon. “And they don’t e-mail you. They initiate these scams by telephone but the government will always send you a letter if you need to comply with something.”

The chief said individuals who believe they have been victims of scams can check IC3.gov online. The site, Internet Crime Complaint center, is operated by the FBI and forwards all complaints to the appropriate department.

The Oil City police department also has details about potential scams and steps to take to find assistance.

“We have information about how to protect yourself against scams,” said Ragon. “It is available to anyone.”