That call requesting money for firefighters is not coming from inside the Concord Fire Department.
That’s the message from Fire Chief Thomas Judge, who said recent phone calls from a fundraiser are actually a scam.
The Concord Fire Department does not solicit monetary donations, Judge said.
“We ask residents to be suspicious of anyone who calls seeking money on the Department’s behalf,” he said. “Unfortunately, these types of scams are too common. Anyone who receives such a solicitation call should contact us immediately.”
To avoid falling victim to telephone scams, follow these tips outlined by the Federal Trade Commission:
- Don’t answer calls from unknown numbers. Let them go to voicemail.
- If you answer and the caller (often a recording) asks you to hit a button to stop receiving calls, hang up. Scammers often use these tricks to identify, and then target, live respondents.
- If you receive a scam call, write down the number and file a complaint with the FTC.
- Ask your phone service provider if it offers a robocall blocking service. You can also visit the FTC’s website for information and resources on available robocall blocking tools to help reduce unwanted calls.
- Consider registering all of your telephone numbers in the National Do Not Call Registry. Access the registry online or by calling 1-888-382-1222.
- These scams can also be reported to the FTC at 877-382-4357, as well as the Concord Police Department at 978-318-3400.
