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Scams

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

A Dish TV Scam, Swindling & Sexual Assault: Police Blotter

The Richfield Public Safety Department releases its most recent crime reports.

All the following information was taken from the Richfield Public Safety Department's crime reports from Jan. 28, 2013, detailing incidents from Jan. 24-27. Jan. 24 Jan. 25 Jan. 26 Jan. 27 Follow Richfield Patch on Twitter | Like us on Facebook | Sign up for our daily newsletter

Saturday, January 12, 2013

Richfield Crime Alert: Scammers Pose as Xcel Energy Customer Service

At least one Richfield resident was targeted by a male claiming to work for Xcel Energy.

Editor's Note: The following was released by the Richfield Public Safety Department. At least one Richfield resident was targeted by a male claiming to work for Xcel Energy. The caller ID on her phone showed Xcel Energy. However, no phone number was listed. The caller likely used a Caller ID Spoof Card in order to fool his victims. The caller informed the resident that she was delinquent on her bill and that she needed to pay with a credit card to avoid having her power shut off the next day. The intended victim knew it was a scam because she uses auto pay and she confirmed online that her account was paid up to date. She was also suspicious because he identified himself as “Mark Anderson” and called on a Saturday. Richfield PD confirmed …

Monday, December 3, 2012

Richfield Crime Alert: Possible Water Testing Scam

Several residents have contacted Richfield's water department regarding bottles being left on their doorsteps asking for water samples.

Editor's note: The following is a Richfield Public Safety crime alert. Several residents have contacted the Richfield Water Department regarding green bottles left on their doorstep with a request for a water sample. The City performs weekly tests at predetermined commercial sites. They do NOT request water samples from residents. In one incident after the homeowner provided a water sample, a man returned with a “water report” and a high pressure sales pitch for a $6,000 filtration system. The man worked his way into the home and requested to use the bathroom. No items were taken. However, it was very difficult for the homeowner to get rid of the individual. He would not provide a business card or a company name. The man was driving a grey…

Monday, April 11, 2011

Richfield Public Safety: Beware of Home Improvement Scams

The Richfield Public Safety Department warns residents to be mindful of possible home improvement scams.

Editor's Note: All information was taken from a Richfield Public Safety Department crime alert. The arrival of spring gives way to the beginning of the home improvement season and Richfield Public Safety wants residents to be aware of possible scams. One home improvement scam has already been reported and while the suspects are in custody, the department released tips to help avoid the scams. Residents should be skeptical if: In addition, when hiring a contractor Richfield Public Safety suggests that you do research and compare bids, check references and check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), the Trade Council or the Homebuilders' Association to make sure the business is legitimate. If you do choose a contractor make sure you agree …

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Richfield Residents Falling Victim to Scams

The Richfield Public Safety Department releases a crime alert detailing different scams and tips on how to protect yourself.

The Richfield Public Safety Department released a crime alert Tuesday detailing some scams that have been reported by Richfield and metro area residents. While anyone can become the victim of a scam, many of the scams are being directed toward seniors, according to the report. The reported scams include: In cases involving check cashing, the check typically bounces at the bank and the victims are held liable for the money. In order to help residents not fall victim to scams, Public Safety has also released tips to help avoid the scams. For medical scams: You can further protect yourself from becoming an easy target of scam artists by guarding all your personal information. Other Police tips are: For additional questions or information, …

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