Complaints Prompt State Probe

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- The Oklahoma attorney general's office launched an investigation and issued a consumer alert after getting dozens of complaints about a possible credit card scam. The agency's

Wednesday, May 30th 2007, 11:31 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- The Oklahoma attorney general's office launched an investigation and issued a consumer alert after getting dozens of complaints about a possible credit card scam. The agency's Consumer Protection Unit has received 61 complaints from Oklahomans who have been called by companies offering assistance to consumers who want to consolidate and lower interest rates on credit card debt.

"In the beginning the calls are automated," Attorney General Drew Edmondson said Wednesday. "The recorded message tells consumers to press a number to speak to a live person who can then consolidate and lower interest rates on any credit cards they have."

Edmondson said a person then begins asking the consumer for information about their current credit card accounts, including balance information and security codes.

"One consumer gave out her information and then received a call from her actual credit card company notifying her that a $1,000 service fee had been placed on her account," Edmondson said. "Additionally, the card number had been used to make a $760 purchase at Neiman Marcus."

Investigators for the attorney generals office believe whoever is behind the calls may be in violation of state and federal identity theft, credit card fraud and "Don't Call" laws, as well as laws restricting the use of autodial machines and caller ID spoofing.

Edmondson urged consumers to be vigilant in protecting their personal and financial information.

"These people have taken great pains to hide who they are and how they operate," the attorney general said. "We are doing everything we can to find these people, but until that happens, we want to remind consumers to protect their information.

"You should never give out your financial information to someone who calls and asks for it. Anyone can lie and say they are from your bank or your credit card company. If someone calls requesting your banking information, hang up and call your bank. You should never freely give out the keys to your accounts."

Charlie Price, Edmondson spokesman, said the investigation involves talking with consumers "as well as trying to track down the companies to get their take on the situation."

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.