CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH – Ahead of the holiday shopping season, the Cuyahoga County Scam Squad is warning residents about imposter scams that are causing people to lose tens of thousands of dollars.

Sign up today for Scam Squad alerts, now available by phone, text or email through the ReadyNotify mass notification system.

Imposter scammers pretend to work for banks, online shopping sites or law enforcement, and attempt to convince people of a problem with one of their accounts. Often, scammers instruct people to download remote access software onto their computers. These programs allow the scammers to manipulate people into believing the problem is real and that they need to pay to fix it.

“Scam Squad partner agencies are seeing more of these scams, some victims are reporting losing tens of thousands of dollars,” said Sheryl Harris, Director of the Cuyahoga County Department of Consumer Affairs. “Residents are encouraged to remain alert and vigilant to protect themselves from scams.”

Residents can take these steps to protect themselves:

• Don’t engage with unexpected calls, texts, or emails about pending charges or other account problems. To check an account or order, log into your account as you normally would or call using a verified number from a statement or bill.
• Know that banks, retailers, and law enforcement will NEVER request remote access to your computer. They also will never tell you that they need to use your money to help with an investigation.
• Don’t follow instructions to give cash to a courier or convert large sums of money into gift cards or bitcoin. Only scammers ask for these types of payments.

Report suspected scams to your local police or call Scam Squad at 216-443-7226.

Protect your loved ones from scams. Sign up for Scam Squad Alerts on Ready Notify at readynotify.us. Learn more at cuyahogacounty.us/scamsquad or by calling 216-443-7035.