ASHLAND — With the distribution of the second government economic assistance stimulus checks underway, scammers are attempting to take advantage of the pandemic with several difficult to recognize money-making schemes.
Over the past couple weeks, there have been reports of Ashland individuals receiving pre-paid debit cards in the mail that claim to contain COVID-relief funds. Most of these ploys request additional information from the recipient to activate the card – including the individual’s Social Security number, birth certificate or credit card information.
Other scams include phone calls, text messages, emails or social media notices requesting personal information, claiming the materials are necessary for the victim to receive their stimulus check. Some fraudulent messages are also alleging the individual can be placed on a vaccination waiting list if the person provides their private information.
Men and women who are above the age of 70 are the most targeted group of individuals. People dealing with Ohio’s unemployment system also tend to be targeted.
Mayor Matt Miller addressed the processes Ashland community members should take if they are suspicious of being victimized by one of these hoaxes.
“Whenever someone receives something that they think is suspicious, and they have questions whether it is legit, the first thing you should do is reach out to the city’s police department or the county sheriff’s department,” Miller said. “This accomplishes two things: Not only will you get an answer to you question about whether this is legit or not, but more importantly, it helps get the word out to all the other residents.”
Ashland Chief of Police David Marcelli reiterated Mayor Miller’s message, saying community members should avoid giving out personal information over the phone. He welcomed calls to the Ashland police station if they are concerned about a potential scheme.
“Give us a call,” Marcelli said. “We can certainly look into it.”
In a December press release, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost warned Ohioans of arising scams that related to the pandemic.
