March 28, 2024

Newton Police Department issues scam warning

Lt. Wes Breckenridge of the Newton Police Department issued the following press release Friday afternoon regarding a scam impacting local residents:

The Newton Police Department would like to make the public aware of a recent cell phone scam. The scam involves citizens receiving a text message that their debit card is no longer active and that they are to call a specific phone number to reactivate it.

The individual then requests personal information from the person’s debit card. This is where the caller is attempting to get the persons debit card information for possible future illegal use.

The public is advised to use caution when receiving similar text messages or phone calls. Newton citizens should always be suspicious of anybody that calls or texts asking for personal information.

Never give credit card, bank, or Social Security information over the phone unless you initiated the call in the first place.  If the caller says that they are representing a local business, it is always best to contact that local business to verify the validity of the request.