Release date: March 13, 2019
Incident: Green Dot Fiduciary Scam
The Warner Robins Police Department would like to inform the public of a nationwide scam that has made its way to our area. This particular scam is referred to as the Green Dot Fiduciary Scam. These scammers prey on businesses, commonly food establishments, by calling employees on the business phone posing as someone from their corporate office.
Often times the number the scammer is calling from mimics that of the corporate office. The scammers will also convince the employee by creating a sense of urgency or threatening the employee to purchase a pre-paid card like Green Dot and relay the numbers on the card to them.
Like many businesses around the country, unfortunately Chick fil A recently became a victim of this type of scam. We’re hoping to prevent future incidents like this by making the public aware of what to look out for.
For example, do not trust caller ID information, because imposters can easily fake caller ID information. To verify the person on the other end of the phone is indeed calling from the corporate office, ask for a call back number and their name. Explain to the caller you will call them back once you speak to a supervisor from your business.
The Federal Trade Commission explains that scammers pretend to be someone you trust, create a sense of urgency, use intimidation and fear, and use untraceable payment methods.
If you feel like your business has been a victim of this type of scam please call the Warner Robins Police Department at 478-302-5378.
