Scams

The Better Business Bureau provides information and resources for consumers regarding spam activity, consumer rights, and other valuable resources. The Bozeman Police Department and the City of Bozeman would like to encourage residents to utilize the valuable services of the BBB (Better Business Bureau).  Please go to  http://www.bbb.org  or their  Public Information Line 800-356.1007.

The city of Bozeman is not immune to SCAMS. They come in all forms, internet, checks, lotteries, nannies, lost relatives, countries that need help, charities, and so on..... Each come with a lure or promise of money, all with a design to get your own identity information, coax you into cashing their counterfeit checks or encourage you to help them with their cause. But, they all fall into one category "too good to be true"

Listed below are current scams occurring in the Bozeman area, to include prevention tips and types of scams. If you are a victim of one of these scams, stop any correspondence, emails, phone calls, etc.... with the suspected "criminal" and call our department at 406-582-2000.  Complaints and information on adding your phone numbers to the national DO NOT CALL registry can also be done through the Federal Trade Commission (the nation's consumber protection agency that collects complaints on fraudulent companies, business practices and identity theft). 

Federal Trade Commission

Common Scams

Scam Prevention

• Be cautious of any offer that sounds to good to be true.
• Verify any calls or emails that you receive about a security or fraud investigation with your bank or financial institution.
• Be wary of any offer that requires you to wire money, withdraw cash from your account, or provide account information.
• Store your checks, deposit slips, bank statements, and cancelled checks in a secure and locked location. Never leave your checkbook in your vehicle or in the open.
• Unless needed for tax purposes, destroy old cancelled checks, account statements, deposited checks, ATM receipts, etc.
• Reconcile your bank statements within 30 days to detect any irregularities.
• Never give your account number to people you do not know, especially over the telephone to unsolicited phone sales calls. Legitimate financial institutions will NOT send out email asking you to verify personal data.
• When you receive a new or replacement check order, make sure all the checks are there and that none are missing.
• Mail your bills from the Post Office or sign up for On Line Bill Pay.
• Limit the amount of personal information on your check. For example, do not include your Social Security Number or Driver's License Number on your check.
• Secure Your Computer, install anti-spy ware, anti-virus, and a personal firewall on your computer. There are many of these products available that will help you prevent criminals from gaining access to your computer and stealing your personal information. A properly protected computer will provide you with secure access to your financial information and combat the efforts of criminals trying to gain access to your activities