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Business - Scam Alert

Sunday, Sep. 13, 2009

Scam Alert: 'Collectors' Not From City

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THE SCAM: City bill collector

HOW IT WORKS: The cost for everything seems to be going up, and those city of Modesto utility bills are no different. But the city isn't sending out collectors to track down residents who have fallen behind. Apparently, people impersonating city employees are showing up on doorsteps around town telling residents they are past due on their bills and need to pay up immediately — on the spot.

WHAT'S AT STAKE: Your money and any personal or banking information on a check with which you pay.

HOW TO BEAT IT: Don't believe it. Just because people show up claiming they work for the city doesn't mean they do. Ask to see official city identification. He or she won't have one, but ask. The city doesn't send employees to homes to collect its bills, past due or not. Residents who are contacted are asked to call the Police Department's property crimes unit at 572-9580.

For a look at past scams, go to www.modbee.com/business/scam.