Avoid Scams

Elderly man talking on phone while looking at credit card

Scammers can appear to be many things: utility companies, computer tech support, a romantic interest, or even the police. But no matter whom they claim to be, they are all after one thing — your money. 

When at all possible, never provide any payment information to anyone over the phone, unless it was a transaction that you initiated, such as calling you doctor’s office to pay a bill. This includes never providing banking and credit card information, or gift card information. Gift cards, or pre-paid money cards, such as the kind you buy at a pharmacy or grocery store, are commonly requested by scammers as part of their tactics. 

No matter the scam, the best advice is to hang up if someone is asking you for any kind of payment. 

If you have been the victim of scam and have experienced a financial loss as a result, please file a report with the Lenexa Police Department by calling 913.477.7301. 

Bitcoin scams

Scammers are increasingly using bitcoin kiosks and other cryptocurrency services to steal money from unsuspecting victims. These scams often begin with an unsolicited phone call, text message or email claiming to be from your bank, PayPal or another company. The scammer will say there is a problem with your account or that there’s been an unauthorized purchase, and pressure you to act quickly to resolve the matter.

Victims are then told to deposit cash into a bitcoin kiosk at a local business or send money directly using a link or QR code. Once sent, the money can be very difficult for law enforcement to trace or recover.

Remember:

  • Legitimate businesses and banks will never ask you to pay with bitcoin or gift cards.
  • Be suspicious of anyone asking you to “fix” an account problem using bitcoin or gift cards.
  • If you get a call or text like this, hang up and contact the company directly using the official phone number on your account statement or website.

When in doubt — stop, hang up and verify. Taking a moment to double check can save you from becoming the next victim of a costly scam.

If you have been a victim of scams or theft and have experienced a financial loss as a result, please file a report with the Lenexa Police Department by calling 913.477.7301.

Social media scams

As we approach festival and event season, it’s important to stay vigilant against social media scams — particularly those on Facebook Events and fake vendor opportunities. Scammers are getting more sophisticated, but a few simple checks can help protect you.

Here are a few key things to watch out for:

1. Who is the host?

Always check the profile of the event organizer. Is it a verified or official page? Does it belong to a known business or city department? If not, it could be a scam.

2. Have they made public posts?

Scammers often create fake accounts with no posts or history. A real event organizer will usually have a track record of activity, photos or past events.

3. What’s in the event description?

Read the details carefully. Be cautious of vague or generic descriptions, poor grammar, or anything that feels off. Legitimate events should be specific and clear.

4. Is there a link to official event information?

Check for a link to a trusted website. For example, all City of Lenexa festivals and events are listed at Lenexa.com. If there’s no link or it directs you somewhere unfamiliar, be cautious.

5. Vendor opportunities and scams

If you're looking into vendor or sponsorship opportunities, be extra careful. The City of Lenexa shares this kind of information only through official channels. Never send personal or financial information to someone you don’t know or trust online.

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