Scam warnings issued as holiday shopping heats up
By TAYLOR BROWN
tbrown@yourmvi.com
State officials are offering advice to help shoppers protect their personal information when checking off items on their Christmas lists.
The Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities and the Pennsylvania State Police expect more people to shop online this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic — and scammers will be out in full force.
Secretary of Banking and Securities Richard Vague said scam artists will use the pandemic to their advantage.
“Scam artists will look to take advantage of this fact and use every tactic available to try and obtain your sensitive financial information for nefarious purposes,” he said.
The state police will work with local, state and federal law enforcement partners to investigate any fraud and scams that are reported.
“Scammers are especially active during the holidays, as spending, online shopping and charitable giving increase,” said Col. Robert Evanchick, commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police. “Their tactics evolve with technology, but several of the most prevalent scams have existed for decades.
“These sophisticated criminals can steal thousands of dollars from hundreds of miles away, so we urge everyone to remain vigilant and to know the warning signs.”
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