A local business trying to collect payment for services they provided was taken advantage of a second time when they became the victim of a fraudulent out-of-state collection agency.
The local company had supplied services to a business located near the Denver Metro area and did not receive payment for the work they performed. They contacted an out-of-state collection agency in an attempt to recover payment for the services.
The fraudulent collection agency requested payment up front and told the victim to send the money by wire, followed by a request for a check in the same amount. The victim confirmed that the wired money had been received and wisely refused to send a check.
The local business never received any payment or assistance from the fraudulent collection company. When they attempted to contact them, the phone had been disconnected and authorities found the business address was not a legitimate location.
This is one of several recent reports the Fort Morgan Police have received where criminals use a wire transfer service to defraud their victims. Residents should use extreme caution when wiring money. Money that is stolen through a wire fraud scheme is difficult to recover and victims are often left with nothing to show for their payment.
If you think you have been a victim of a fraud or theft, call the Fort Morgan Police Department at 867-5678 or if you or anyone has information on this or other crimes is asked to call the Fort Morgan Police Department at 867-5678, call CRIMESTOPPERS at (970) 542-3411, or submit your tip online and remain anonymous.
Anyone giving information that results in an arrest could receive a cash reward.
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