Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers and Lancaster County Sheriff Terry Wagner have issued a consumer alert regarding a scam that has been circulating in Lancaster County. Wagner tells KLIN News scammers have been using specific personal details and scare tactics to pressure Nebraskans into sending money.
“Makes it that more worrisome for the victim because this person knows all about my family so they are more apt to give in to any kind of demands the scammer might make.” Hilgers says many Nebraskans have received threats from unknown numbers or emails from people claiming to harm them or their families.
These threats seem more credible because scammers may have the victim’s address, family member names, or other personal details. Scammers may also be sending violent pictures to scare victims further.
Scammers are also claiming to be authority figures like the FBI or police to get victims to comply. Wagner and Hilgers say if you receive a threat against you or your family that causes you to fear for your safety, contact your local law enforcement and file a report.
If you need assistance to help identify a potential scam, call the Consumer Affairs Response Team in the Attorney General’s Office at 402-471-2682. You can also stop unwanted calls on your cell phone and landline to prevent scammers from being able to contact you. If you need assistance, there are free guides for iPhones, Androids, and landlines available on the Attorney General’s website.
Wagner says you can also block threatening or suspicious emails and do not click on any links. If you would like to request a community presentation from the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office to learn how to identify scams, you can click here.
Additionally, free Consumer Protection Kits are available by request.