The First Precinct Community Council

Don’t Be the Victim of Phone Scams: Prepaid Debit Cards

With the availability of Prepaid Debit Cards, criminals have developed new ways to steal from the public.

1. A caller informs the victim that they owe back taxes to the IRS and must make immediate payment with a Green Dot Money-Pak.
2. The victim’s family member had a car accident and the caller threatens physical violence unless immediate reimbursement is made with a Green Dot Money-Pak.
3. Utility companies demand immediate payment by Green Dot Money-Pak or your electricity will be turned off.

Crime Prevention Tips

The NYPD’s Crime Prevention Section offers these tips to help you avoid falling victim to the scams:

• Be suspicious of callers who demand immediate payment for any reason.
• Remember that anyone who has the number on a Green Dot MoneyPak card has access to the funds on the card.
• Never give out personal or financial information to anyone who emails or calls you unsolicited.
• Never wire money, provide debit or credit card numbers or Green Dot MoneyPak card numbers to someone you do not know.
• Utility companies and government agencies will not contact you demanding immediate payment by MoneyPak.