NOTE: THE FOLLOWING ARTICLE WAS FIRST PUBLISHED ON DECEMBER 14TH. SINCE THEN, A NEW PHONE SCAM HAS BEEN REPORTED TO US. SOMEONE MAY CALL YOU AND SAY “THIS IS THE CEO OF THE TREASURY DEPARTMENT (THERE IS NO SUCH POSITION), AND WE HAVE A CHECK FOR YOU WORTH……..”
YOU WILL THEN BE ASKED TO PROVIDE INFORMATION, SUCH AS A BANK ROUTING NUMBER OR A SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER. DO NOT GIVE OUT THIS INFORMATION. HANG UP, AND REPORT THE CALL TO AUTHORITIES IMMEDIATELY.
There are two things that can ruin a holiday season that can be avoided: accidents from driving impaired and being scammed.
Starting this Friday, Dec 17th, the Danville Police Department will be participating in a statewide impaired driving awareness campaign that runs through January 3rd.
Danville Deputy Police Chief Terry McCord says let’s use common sense, because they’re out there watching you.
AUDIO: And we want to make sure that the streets are safe here in Danville. We want everybody to be able to go out and celebrate and have a good time, but we want them to do it responsibly. So make sure that you always get that ride home.
And McCord also says, get involved. If you see a dangerous driver, pull over and call 9-1-1. It could save a life.
AUDIO: You may not be concerned about yourself driving on the road, but who knows what may happen to somebody else. So anytime we can get some help, and report that in, it really helps us.
Meanwhile, with all the wonderful Salvation Army and Toys for Tots efforts this time of year, there are also scams going on in the name of holiday giving. Deputy Chief McCord says, always verify, and if you can’t, use common sense.
AUDIO: Definitely make sure that if you’re being asked to give money that it’s a valid company. If you can’t call them back and if you’re not sure, we definitely would say, don’t do it. Just play on the side of caution. And don’t be afraid to report that to the Danville Police Department as well.
The Vermilion County Sheriff’s Office also advises that if you get a phone call from an organization, make sure you call back and confirm who they are before doing anything. Law enforcement agencies, for example, do not usually call for donations.
