Bourbonnais, IL – The Bourbonnais Police Department has issued an urgent public service announcement, warning residents about the ongoing prevalence of phone scams in the area.
According to the department, these scams often involve callers impersonating government agencies, tech support personnel, or even close acquaintances facing emergencies. The scammers typically demand payments through gift cards, a method no legitimate agency would use.
The announcement highlighted various tactics used by scammers, such as sending overpayment checks and requesting the excess be returned via gift cards. The police emphasize the urgency and intimidation tactics employed by scammers, often pressuring victims to act swiftly. The scams frequently involve gift cards from well-known companies like Apple, eBay, Target, and Google Play, with scammers asking for the card numbers and PINs.
For those seeking more information or assistance, the Federal Trade Commission offers resources on avoiding and reporting gift card scams. Residents are encouraged to visit their website for detailed guidance.