Arlington Heights police offer tips to avoid scams

An Arlington Heights woman is out the money for four laptop computers because she fell for a scam that first promised a Mercedes-Benz and then $5.5 million.

Arlington Heights police have issued warnings about scams to prevent more area residents from being taken in. Research shows that fraud victims are likely to be educated, informed and active in their community, the police said.

The big rule: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!

• Never give a caller your credit card, phone card, Social Security number or bank account number over the phone. It's illegal for telemarketers to ask for these numbers to verify a prize or gift.

• Don't wire money, even to relatives, unless you can verify the identify of the person asking for the money. Cons can pretend to be your friend or your grandson.

• Beware of offers for cheap home repair work that would otherwise be expensive. Never pay with cash. Never accept offers from drive-up workers who “just happen” to be in the neighborhood. Demand information in writing.

• Never allow any worker who did not have an appointment into your home. If you are talking outside make sure all doors are locked. Cons will use what sounds like a legitimate problem as a distraction while others enter your home to take jewelry, money and other valuables.

• Report any incidents to your local police department and the Illinois Attorney General's office.