Better Business Bureau warns of phone prize scam invoking BBB’s name

NC GAZETTE / WBRT RADIO
STAFF REPORT

Thursday, Oct. 1, 2015, 11:30 a.m. — The Louisville office of the Better Business Bureau is warning consumers about an ongoing scam that invokes the BBB’s name.

According to a BBB news release, people are receiving phone calls from individuals who say they are associated with the BBB. The caller claims the recipient has been selected as winner of a large cash prize, a new car or other prizes. The caller may claim the winner was selected based on his or her phone number.

A Nelson County Gazette reporter received such a phone call Thursday morning. The caller claimed the reporter had won $750,000, a car, and other prizes. The call came from (567) 246-1620, which is a central Ohio area code.

Click here to listen to a portion of the BBB scam phone call audio.

The BBB said it is not involved with any sweepstakes or contests with prizes.

According to the BBB, there are variations of the scam. Sometimes the caller will claim he or she is with the BBB and has a certified check for the person receiving the call. Some consumers have reported receiving a phone call from someone claiming to be the CEO of the Better Business Bureau sweepstakes with a check in-hand for them.

One consumer was tipped off to the scam when the caller wanted to meet at a gas station to award the prize.

The Gazette reporter was given the option of accepting the prizes or donating to charity. At this point, the reporter terminated the phone call.

If you receive a call from “the BBB” offering cash or prizes, the BBB suggests consumers take the following steps:

1. Ask which BBB the caller is from and for a phone number where the person can be reached.

2. Hang up immediately if the caller will not provide that information.

3. If the person does provide any information, write it down and hang up.

4. Contact the Louisville BBB at 502-583-6546 or info@bbbkyin.org to report the call.

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