Don’t be scammed!!
A number of local businesses have received letters from persons claiming to be with the “Contract Award Committee” of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation. The letter states that if the person contacted (the American citizen) furnishes these persons with certain information such as their bank account information, they will be awarded a large sum of money for simply allowing these Nigerian businessmen to deposit money in the American account. The letter also instructs the person not to tell anyone of this “deal.”
It cannot be strongly enough emphasized that you should never give personal information to anyone that you are not 100% sure is legitimate. There are no reports that anyone ever has profited from this “deal.” Remember, if it seems to good to be true, then it probably is.
From time to time, telephone solicitors phone businesses and individuals looking for donations. They may claim to be supporting some anti-drug cause, or publishing a handbook for parents on the dangers of drugs and violence. If there are any questions concerning the legitimacy of the cause, do not hesitate to ask questions.
The solicitors should be able to tell you where the money or product is going. Don’t be afraid to check their story out before donating your money. Get the name of a contact person at the agency they claim will get the proceeds. Be wary of individuals who cannot or will not give you a contact name and phone number at the agency that they claim to represent. If you feel that you are being scammed, contact your local police department.
Don’t be a Victim of Fraud!!
Several citizens of the Town of Coventry have been victimized by persons posing as utility workers or service persons. In one instance, men posing as tree clearing contractors talked their way into a residence and stole a sum of money from the elderly occupants. DO NOT allow strangers into your home. Question persons from utilities who show up at your door without being called. If there are any questions at all, call the utility company or the police.
Don’t be a victim!!
Burglary Prevention Tips
- Keep the perimeter of your home well lighted. Keep shrubs and trees near the house trimmed. Shrubbery and thick foliage provides concealment for burglars.
- Keep doors and windows securely locked. You should have a dead bolt lock with a minimum 1″ throw with a strike plate with 3″ screws. The lock is only as good as the supporting door and jamb. If your door has glass, consider installing a dead bolt that requires a key on both sides. If you use this type of lock, you MUST have a key nearby, out of the reach of burglars, in the event you need to quickly exit your residence in case of fire, etc.
- Secure sliding glass doors. Install vertical bolts to prevent the door from being taken off the track. Place a metal rod in the track.
- This may seem obvious, but don’t leave a vehicle parked outside with an electric garage door remote inside.
- Make your house look as though someone may be home. Leaving on a radio and placing lights on timers may deter an “opportunistic” burglar. If you go on vacation, have a trusted neighbor pick up your mail and newspapers. It may not be wise to cancel home deliveries if someone is available to pick them up for you. Do not leave a message on your answering machine advertising that you are on vacation.
- Organize a formal, or informal community watch program with your neighbors. Report ANY suspicious activity to your police department no matter how trivial it may seem. You do not have to give your name.
- If possible, invest in a quality alarm system installed by a reputable, licensed installer. Instruct members of your household in the operation of the system, in order to prevent false alarms. Be sure to check with your local officials for any regulations concerning burglar alarms.
