Ulster County Sheriffs Warn Of Increased Risk Of Phone Scams In 2018

The number of phone scam artists is on the rise across the country and the Hudson Valley certainly isn't immune to the issue. The Ulster County Sheriff's office has issued a warning to local residents about several scams in particular that have been an ongoing issue.

• Grandparent scam
• Utility scam
• Charity scam
• Computer cold call repair scam
• IRS scam

A newer scam, referred to as the 'neighbor scam' puts technology to use for the con artist. They're able to simulate, what appears to be, a local number when calling in the hopes you'll think it's someone you know. This is what's called 'spoofing', and it's relatively easy to pull off.

According to Hiya, a free call screening app, attempts to defraud people rose 76% in 2017 and that number is sure to rise.

Personally, I've been getting calls from a weird number in Houston. If only that vacation offer was legit. And I'm STILL waiting on my $3 million check from that Nigerian prince. There's NO WAY they'd use my bank account number and social security number for nefarious purposes. No chance.

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