submitted by Police Chief Robert Ashe
The Hoosick Falls Police Department has been receiving several reports from citizens who have received a phone call from individuals who have been engaging the citizen in conversations about their home computer, home services, for example power or phone companies, even about collecting on a bill. [private]The Hoosick Falls Police Department encourages anyone who receives any type of phone call where the caller attempts to gather individual information about themselves or others who live inside the house to think and ask questions before any information is given. It is okay to ask some of the following:
• ask for the caller’s name and organization;
• ask for a return phone number;
• request that the caller write to you with proper documentation as to what they are looking for,
and also:
• never provide any information about yourself or family members;
• never provide any credit card information;
• never wire money;
• never let the caller threaten you with arrest or turning you in to a credit bureau.
By your asking questions, most of the time the caller will realize that you are protecting yourself and if it is a scam they will discontinue the phone call.
Keep in mind that a legitimate caller will provide any information you request.
If you do receive a call that you think may be a scam then rely on your instinct. It is a scam.
Also, remember if someone comes to your door to sell something they must have a permit issued from the Village or your local municipality. Ask for it.
If you do have any suspicious phone calls or individuals attempting to sell you something at your door, call the Police.
These types of calls come from many people identifying themselves from all sorts of organizations and businesses, so be conscious as to whom you are speaking and be safe.[/private]