Numerous people targeted by scams in Rexburg

Rexburg residents were the targets of numerous telephone scams with varying degrees of success Wednesday.

Of those reported, Rexburg Police Chief Shane Turman said one resident lost $7,700 after maxing out credit cards and other accounts to take care of what the caller threatened was a warrant for his arrest. There was no warrant.

Another victim bought $2,000 in Chrome gift cards to avoid trouble from the IRS, before thinking better of it and calling the Police Department for advice. There was no threat.

Police also handled reports from people asked to come up with advance fees to claim $2.3 million from the Publisher’s Clearing House, another phony threat about back taxes, and another person who was told his social security number was tied to a drug trafficking operation.

Police checked the man’s record, at his request, to reassure him he was not an international fugitive.

People should keep in mind that any demand for an advance fee to get a prize is illegal. Police, courts, and the IRS will never attempt to collect money over the phone. If they want you they’ll pay you a visit.

If you have any concerns,hang up, contact local law enforcement, or phone the Better Business Bureau at 1-800-218-1001.