While this Reno scam alert actually originated in Placer County, California, it provides valuable information to avoid being ripped off. California police call it the "Delivery Man Credit Card Scam". If a delivery man requires you to provide a credit card for a delivery you weren't expecting, be on the lookout. This is a scam!
Reno Scam Alert: Delivery Man Credit Card Scam
Recently, a Placer County resident reported that someone called from a delivery company stating that they had some flowers and wine on its way to their home that required the resident's signature. The "delivery man" showed up approximately one hour later. The "delivery man" stated that, since the delivery included alcohol, the company required a payment of $3.50 as proof that the delivery was made to someone aged 21 or older. When the resident offered to pay the fee in cash, the "delivery man" explained that it had to be via a credit or debit card. So, the resident provided their debit card, the "delivery man" ran it through a mobile card reader, the resident entered their PIN number and the "delivery man" handed over an official-looking receipt for the transaction. The resident didn't think anything of it until they discovered more than $4000 missing from their checking account just four days later.
How to Protect Yourself from the Delivery Man Scam
We receive more packages this time of year than any other. So, it's easy to fall prey to things like the Delivery Man Credit Card Scam. If you receive a phone call or are told by a delivery person that they require payment of any kind before they can deliver the package, verify the sender information. If you don't recognize the sender, simply refuse the package. And never, ever give your credit or debit card information to anyone purporting to have a package for you. Online orders require payment before they even ship anything out. But, if someone sends you a package, you won't need to make any payment at the time of delivery anyway. Most likely, the shipper paid any fees before it went out to you.
Identity theft is on the rise, especially at this time of year. So, heed this Reno scam alert. Guard your credit/debit card info with your life. It can take years to reverse the damage one identity thief causes.
Briana Sullivan, Relocation to Reno, your Reno real estate specialists
Originally posted on my Reno real estate blog here: https://www.relocationtoreno.com/2017/11/27/reno-scam-alert-delivery-man-credit-card-scam/.
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