SKIPPACK PA – Somewhat like Santa Claus, but nowhere near as friendly, scam artists are expected to spend time in Montgomery County during this Christmas season. PA 24th District Sen. Tracy Pennycuick wants the public to be ready for them.
“Scammers are especially active during the holidays, as spending, online shopping, and charitable giving increase,” Pennycuick notes in a media release. That’s why she is among several hosts of a “Scam Jam” seminar scheduled for Dec. 13 (2024; Friday) from 10 a.m. to noon at the Skippack Township Building, 4089 Heckler Rd., Skippack PA.
The event is free to attend and open to the public, but reservations are “strongly recommended” because seating may be limited. To register, go online or call Pennycuick’s office at 215-541-2388.
Also serving as hosts are Skippack Township, the state Department of Banking and Securities, the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and AARP.
“This event serves as a comprehensive educational experience on the latest scam tactics and prevention strategies,” Pennycuick says. “Expert speakers will provide valuable insights and actionable advice to help you protect yourself, and your loved ones, from the ever-evolving world of fraud.”
Scams may take different forms, but their underlying methods are often the same. They prey on emotions, circumstances, or a lack of knowledge to take financial advantage of other parties. It’s important, law enforcement experts agree, to remain vigilant and know the warning signs.
The Latest Scam, Reported Nov. 13
Don’t believe everything you read, the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services currently suggests on its “Scam & Fraud Alerts” webpage.
The latest scam, on which the department issued a Nov. 13 post, targets members of the general public who are enrolled in the state’s EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) ACCESS card program. The card allows program participants to buy groceries, withdraw cash from automated teller machines, and make cash purchases from participating retailers.
The texts, which are fraudulent, purportedly come from program officials. They don’t; scammers, not the state, are sending them with purposely misleading messages. They claim the text recipients’ “benefits have been deactivated.” They also tell “recipients to call an 833-786-6243 number to re-activate them.” Don’t do that, the department warns.
Instead, the department suggests recipients of these texts contact their counties’ assistance office. Report what seems to be the scam, and ask employees there to help you, and answer your questions, and offer advice on how to proceed.
Card photos provided to Travels With The Post by the PA Department of Health and Human Services
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