Credit Card Scam Making Its Way Around The State

Thursday, May 31st 2007, 9:48 am

By: News On 6

More people are contacting the state Attorney General's fraud office about a scam making the rounds in Oklahoma. According to the complaints, the company offers to help you consolidate and lower interest rates on credit card debt. A Tulsa man has been targeted many times. News On 6 anchor Craig Day reports he hasn't fallen for the scam, and he doesn't want you to either.

Once, sometimes twice a day for a month and a half, Jeff Brooks has received an automated call from a company that wants him to sign up for a credit card service. He says it's enough to drive you crazy.

"It's like going to get a tooth pulled every single day," said Brooks.

Brooks tried to track down where the calls are coming from, but can't get through to a real person. He's turned his information over to the state Attorney General's office.

"If you're not on your toes, they'll get your money," Brooks said.

Attorney General Drew Edmondson says his office has received more than 60 of those complaints recently. He issued a consumer alert, warning Oklahomans about the possible scam.

Edmondson says the services claim they can consolidate credit card debt or reduce interest youâ€™re paying on credit cards.

"In the context of that, they start asking for your credit card numbers and security code numbers on those cards," said Edmondson.

The Attorney General's office says the calls are usually from card holder services, card services or credit card services.

"Don't give out credit card information, personal information over the phone unless you know exactly who you're dealing with," said Edmondson.

Jeff Brooks thinks thieves may be trying to get his personal information, and at the very least the phone calls are annoying.

"I wish they would quit calling me. I really wish they would quit calling me," Brooks said.

Anyone with information regarding suspected fraud or scams were urged to contact the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Hotline at 405-521-2029 or by visiting their website, www.oag.state.ok.us.

You can also sign up for Oklahoma's Do Not Call listing by clicking here.

For more safety tips, check out News On 6 Lori Fullbright's Safety Tips.

Watch the video: Credit Card Scam Making The Rounds In Oklahoma

Related story:

5/30/2007 - Complaints Prompt State Probe