Credit card, Social Security scams take on another form

While there’s certainly nothing new about scammers preying on people — particularly senior citizens — in the name of a quick buck, the scams seem to be constantly evolving.

Some recent methods, reported to the Banner Graphic by a local resident, involves either offering to pay off a credit card for the would-be victim or informing the target that there is a problem with his or her Social Security.

The catch, of course, is that both cases the callers ask for some sort of personal information, either your credit card number or Social Security number.

“Social Security does not call you,” the resident said. “And I called by credit card company and they said this has gotten to be a problem with them calling people like this.”

The resident, herself a senior citizen, said the calls even come from a local number, adding to the confusion for some.

The best advice in any such situation is not to divulge any personal information and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

And always keep in mind: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.