Area business owners could soon be receiving an official-looking postcard in the mail. And, even though the card may look official, appearances can be deceiving.
Secretary of State Jason Kander says the postcards look like an official government document, but are not affiliated with any state or federal agency, including the Corporations Division in Kander's office.
Dozens of Missouri businesses have reported receiving the postcards, which direct the recipient to call a toll-free number to avoid fees and penalties.
Dexter Police Lieutenant Detective Trevor Pulley said the cards haven't surfaced locally yet.
"We haven't gotten any reports about this," Pulley said. "But we probably will. It will probably be soon."
Pulley has been at the front of the battle against scams that are perpetrated locally for a while now; and his advice remains the same.
"If something sounds too good to be true, then it probably is," Pulley remarked. "In this instance, if you get what looks like an official document -- like the Secretary of State's office -- then call the number of the office that it claims to be. So, if you get one of these cards, call the actual Secretary of State's number instead of the one on the card."
Pulley said that advice extends to other scams as well.
One scam that has lingered this past year, is one involving a phone call where the caller claims to be with the IRS. During the scam, the caller demands bank information and claims that you owe the government money, and they are willing to settle.
"In a situation like that, if you're unsure as to whether or not you owe the IRS money, then call the actual IRS office," Pulley advised. "The IRS is not going to call you and make demands like that."
Pulley continues to stress the importance of guarding your personal information.
"Regularly check your account balance," Pulley recommended. "Look for any unusual activity, and check the balance."
Pulley went on to advise regularly changing passwords to all your internet accounts.
"One of the best things anyone can do is stay vigilant in guarding their personal information," he said. "Do not give anyone your social security number or anything like that."
Additionally, Pulley said an official agency will send official documentation, as opposed to sending something that looks questionable.
"Basically, if it doesn't seem right, it probably isn't," Pulley remarked. "Call the actual agency's number, and contact the police. We'll always do what we can to stop these scams, but safeguarding your information is the best way to prevent being ripped off."