Georgia has seen a significant increase in fraudulent activities targeting its residents. Here are five prevalent scams to be aware of:
1. Impersonation Scams
Scammers pose as law enforcement officials or government agencies, contacting individuals to demand immediate payments for alleged violations or debts. The Grovetown Police Department has reported incidents where fraudsters impersonate officers, threatening victims with arrest if they do not comply with payment demands.
2. Utility Payment Scams
Georgia Power has alerted customers about fraudsters impersonating their representatives. These scammers threaten to disconnect services unless immediate payments are made, often instructing victims to use untraceable methods like prepaid cards.
3. Toll Payment Phishing
Residents have reported receiving fraudulent text messages claiming to be from “Georgia Tolls” or “Peach Pass,” stating that there are unpaid tolls requiring immediate payment. These messages aim to trick recipients into providing personal and financial information.
4. Investment and Cryptocurrency Scams
The Georgia Secretary of State has warned about an increase in scams where fraudsters pose as legitimate businesses or government agencies, enticing individuals into fraudulent investment opportunities, including cryptocurrency schemes.
5. Identity Theft and Credit Fraud
Georgia has experienced a high number of identity theft cases, with scammers exploiting personal information to commit fraud. In 2023, the state recorded $234.3 million lost to fraud, with identity theft being one of the most common types.
Residents are advised to stay vigilant, verify unsolicited communications, and report suspicious activities to local authorities to protect themselves from these evolving scams.