NEWS RELEASE



For further information please contact:

Sergeant Brent J. Bernhardt

(660) 385-2132

B06023

February 21, 2006



EMPHASIS: Patrol Warns Public About Possible Scam





In the past week, several citizens in northeast Missouri have been contacted by telephone, by individuals who ask them to confirm personal banking information. In most of these incidents, the caller has reported that the individual’s bank account number has been placed on a “National Web-site”. The caller then says they work for a company that is in the process of removing the number from the website but need the potential victim to give them their personal bank account numbers.



It is important for citizens to remember that no personal information including social security numbers, credit card numbers, or bank information should ever be shared over the telephone or Internet. In the event that you feel that someone might possibly have obtained your personal information or if you receive a telephone call similar to the most recent scam, it is suggested that you contact your bank, credit card company and local law enforcement agency immediately as identity thefts are occurring far too often.