(Helena) – Attorney General Austin Knudsen is warning Montanans of frequently reported website-based scams – including law enforcement, bitcoin investment, and tech support scams during National Consumer Protection Week which runs from March 3-9th.
A law enforcement scam is carried out by phone fraudsters calling individuals and impersonating local law enforcement. Cryptocurrency investment and ATM scams are being utilized as a piggyback method to other scams, like the law enforcement scam.
Technical Support Scammers will issue a pop-up alert on a targeted computer claiming that anti-virus software is out of date and instructing victims to call the number on the screen. Then, scammers will take control of the computer.
Knudsen’s office has published a list of tips to avoid scamming:
• If the deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Avoid using third-party payment apps, wire transfers, gift cards and cryptocurrency ATMs.
• Don’t be pressured to send money. Consult family, friends, or the Office of Consumer Protection before sending money via computer or phone.
• Never send money to someone you don’t know.
• Check to ensure the website is secure.
• Verify the business address.
• When in doubt, do not purchase.
Montanans can report any scams to the Montana Department of Justice’s Office of Consumer Protection at https://app.doj.mt.gov/OCPPortal/?q=node/396, contactocp@mt.gov, or (406) 444-4500 or toll free at (800) 481-6896.
