Scams
BetTer Business Bureau
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 582-2000.
Current Local Scams
Scam Prevention
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Be cautious of any offer that sounds to good to be true.
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Verify any calls or emails that you receive about a security or fraud
investigation with your bank or financial institution.
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Be wary of any offer that requires you to wire money, withdraw cash from your
account, or provide account information.
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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.
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Unless needed for tax purposes, destroy old cancelled checks, account
statements, deposited checks, ATM receipts, etc.
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Reconcile your bank statements within 30 days to detect any irregularities.
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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.
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When you receive a new or replacement check order, make sure all the checks are
there and that none are missing.
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Mail your bills from the Post Office or sign up for On Line Bill Pay.
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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.
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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