People in and around our area are complaining of being targeted by scammers, telling a variety of tales in an effort to try to get personal information or money.
Rock Island authorities say residents are reporting phone calls telling them they missed a jury summons date, and demanding a security or assuring bond to avoid being arrested. "The individuals are then trying to secure credit card and personal information over the telephone," said Rock Island County Sheriff's Department Captain Steve Ven Huizen.
The calls are bogus, and county officials won't ask you for that personal or credit card information over the phone. If you get such a call, hang up and contact local law enforcement.
Coal Valley authorities say residents there, especially elderly residents, are being targeted by scammers claiming to offer home improvement and repair services. "Ordinance requires any solicitor to have purchased a license from the Village for any door-to-door sales. This license would be available to be presented to the customer upon request," said a statement about the scammers posted online by the Village of Coal Valley.
An elderly Johnston, Iowa resident told police she got a call January 7 from a man who claimed to be associated with the Iowa Caucus; the man said the caucus was coming up soon, and he wanted her address so he could meet with her to complete paperwork so she could attend the caucus. The woman did not give the man any information, and she reported the incident to police after she learned the Iowa Caucus is scheduled for February 1, according to WHO-TV.
Police in Johnston also warned residents to avoid giving out personal information to anyone they don't know, especially on the phone.