PIERRE, S.D. – In recognition of National Consumer Protection Week, the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission highlights the importance of recognizing red flags from unknown callers. The commission’s “Don’t Know? Don’t Answer.” education campaign emphasizes a simple, protective message: If you don’t recognize the number calling you, don’t answer the call.
“The PUC aims to provide South Dakotans with the information and resources needed to protect their information, assets and identities. We always recommend that if you don’t know the number calling, don’t answer. If that isn’t always possible, listen for warning signs in the call,” said PUC Chairman Chris Nelson. “Threatening language or demands for immediate action should cause concern. If that happens, don’t be afraid take a step back and contact the supposed caller directly through a publicly available phone number,” he explained.
Most often, phone scams can be categorized as imposter scams, where the caller pretends to be or impersonates someone else to gain your trust, information and eventually money.
“Telephone scammers are criminals who defraud people. Knowledge is power in avoiding them. Know common scams and how they operate and be prepared to respond. If you receive a suspicious call claiming to be from your utility provider, hang up and call your utility using the number on your bill to verify. Always use trusted sources,” recommended PUC Vice Chairperson Kristie Fiegen.
Common phone scams include callers impersonating utility companies, banks, credit card companies, law enforcement, IRS officials, charity organizations, Medicare or Medicaid representatives, investment and crypto-currency firms, and even family members in legal trouble. Other scams have surfaced in previous years, like those involving student and auto loans, car warranties, health insurance and lottery or sweepstakes winnings, and are still common occurrences.
“Scams come in many shapes and sizes, and are always evolving, which makes perpetrators difficult to catch. That is why it is so important to stay informed, use available consumer resources to help identify and avoid scams, report incidents to law enforcement, state attorney general’s office or the Federal Trade Commission and access support that can help you recover if a scam occurs,” stated Commissioner Gary Hanson.
PUC Commissioners and staff will be on hand at the Black Hills Home Show, March 27-29, at The Monument in Rapid City to answer questions and continue their efforts to educate consumers. Stop by to take our “Don’t Know? Don’t Answer!” pledge and learn more about scams or visit the PUC’s website at puc.sd.gov/scamcalls.