Ways to safeguard against scams
Scams target individuals by impersonating authorities, sending fake messages, or altering digital communications. These curated articles discuss scams involving impersonators, fake text messages, fraudulent bank transfers, misleading mailers and cybersecurity incidents.
A reported scam involves calls from someone pretending to be a Wichita officer who demands payment for a fake warrant. Another scheme uses realistic texts claiming unpaid tolls, tricking people into providing personal information. A third example highlights a bank transfer scam where altered email addresses led to the wrongful transfer of funds.
Reports also mention deceptive postcards urging action under the guise of a government message. Awareness and verification can help protect against these fraudulent tactics.
NO. 1: IF YOU GET A CALL FROM SOMEONE WHO CLAIMS TO BE A WICHITA OFFICER AND ASKS THIS, HANG UP
Here’s how to avoid being scammed. | Published September 19, 2024 | Read Full Story by Eduardo Castillo
NO. 2: ‘SEVERAL HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS’ GONE IN BAD BANK TRANSFER, KANSAS DA SAYS OF SCAM
Someone tricked parties involved in a property sale with fake email addresses that were so close to the real ones no one noticed until it was too late. | Published January 24, 2025 | Read Full Story by Amy Renee Leiker
NO. 3: GETTING TEXTS THAT YOU OWE KANSAS FOR TRAFFIC TOLLS? IGNORE THEM, TURNPIKE OFFICIALS SAY
The texts are a “smishing” con, designed to download malware, or trick people into sharing personal information or sending money to cybercriminals. | Published February 21, 2025 | Read Full Story by Eric Adler
NO. 4: ‘DECEPTIVE’ POSTCARD ARRIVING IN LOCAL MAILBOXES. DON’T FALL FOR IT, DA’S OFFICE SAYS
People experiencing cognitive decline are especially vulnerable because the mailers “intentionally prey on their anxieties, vulnerabilities and ability to recall events,” the DA’s Office says. | Published April 22, 2025 | Read Full Story by Amy Renee Leiker
NO. 5: WICHITA HEALTH CLINIC WARNS PATIENTS OF CYBERSECURITY INCIDENT. WERE YOU AFFECTED?
The incident may have exposed patients’ Social Security numbers, financial account information and driver’s licenses, among other information. | Published May 20, 2025 | Read Full Story by Eduardo Castillo
The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.