The Nye County Sheriff’s Office continues its outreach efforts, warning the local community how to avoid scams and fraud crimes.
Last week, the sheriff’s office hosted a public presentation at the Pahrump Senior Center, conducted by Sgt. Michael Eisenloffel.
During the presentation before approximately 65 seniors, Eisenloffel warned residents about the various methods scammers use to dupe residents, as well as methods to fend off the swindlers.
“You should never give out any personal information such as names, addresses, age and date of birth,” he said. It’s also important to remember not to provide your social security number and banking information to anyone who is not known to you personally.”
As tax season is in full swing, Eisenloffel said the Internal Revenue Service does not contact individuals via telephone in an attempt to recover unpaid taxes from individuals.
“Do not agree to send money or give credit card information to anyone who you’re not absolutely sure is legitimate,” Eisenloffel said. “Be aware that the IRS does not call and demand money or threaten to arrest anyone for back taxes. The federal agency always sends the proper paperwork via the U.S Postal Service, along with a valid call-back phone number.”
Insurance fraud is yet another method scammers use to take advantage of the elderly, Eisenloffel said.
“You should always be aware of anyone accusing you of having caused a minor car accident in a parking lot, and then demands personal information and cash for any damages in return for not calling law enforcement.”
As the sheriff’s office continually remains concerned with the well-being and safety of seniors and all citizens throughout Nye County, it welcomes opportunities to make similar presentations to any groups or organizations on various topics as needed or requested within the community.
Area organizations and agencies interested in hosting a presentation, may contact Eisenloffel at 775-751-7000, ext. 5.
Contact reporter Selwyn Harris at sharris@pvtimes.com. On Twitter: @pvtimes