Standard Digital Access for $1 for 1 year.
Subscriber? Login
With increasing instances of scams, Lorain County Prosecutor J.D. Tomlinson has taken the initiative to caution the local population about recent fraudulent activities. A news release has been issued in this context.
According to the reports, a swindler, who introduced himself as an investigator for the Prosecutor’s Office, targeted a local citizen. The fraudster, naming himself Kyle Brooks, claimed that the individual was facing serious charges due to an outstanding short-term lending debt, or what’s popularly known as a “payday loan”.
Supporting his plot with a made-up case reference and contact number, 833-230-1209, the deceit artist directed that the subject should call to settle the matter.
On dialling the number, the target was told that he must pay thousands of dollars in fines associated with severe felonies. However, the scammer offered an alternative to the victim – an immediate lesser amount would get him out of legal implications.
Smelling something fishy, the target disconnected the call and reported the situation immediately.
Ed Manion, Investigator from Prosecutor’s Fraud Protection Unit, confirmed that no such investigator or case number existed, and the involved contact number was flagged for fraud on several social media platforms.
The Prosecutor’s Office appeals to everyone to stay vigilant about unusual correspondence that either assure rewards or warn of legal repercussions in return for immediate payment. It is advisable to always cross-check information from official conduits and overlook links or contact details given by unfamiliar sources.
For more information or queries, feel free to reach out to Investigator Manion at 440-329-2306 or email him at ed.manion@lcprosecutor.org.
Refer to Morning Journal for further details.
#### **Frequently Asked Questions**
##### **1. What actions are being taken against such payday loan scams?**
The Prosecutor’s Office is putting all efforts in cautioning people about such fraudulent deeds. The reported incidents are given utmost priority and thoroughly investigated by the Fraud Protection unit. They are also encouraging people to report suspicious activities.
##### **2. What precautions should be taken to avoid such loan scams?**
Always verify information from official sources and disregard links or contacts provided by unknown sources. Be alert when unsolicited communications promise prizes or threaten legal consequences in exchange for immediate payments.
##### **3. Whom should I contact if I encounter such a scam?**
You should report the incident immediately to the local authorities. Alternatively, Investigator Ed Manion from Prosecutor’s Fraud Protection Unit can be contacted for assistance at 440-329-2306 or via email at ed.manion@lcprosecutor.org.
