Check Traffic

Check Traffic
Live Cameras, Conditions

°

Homepage / Money
Text Size

College Credit Card Offer Is Identity Theft Scam

Don't Give Personal Information Over Phone

POSTED: Tuesday, March 29, 2005
UPDATED: 3:58 pm CST March 29, 2005

A special credit card offer for college students is actually the latest identity theft scam, Local 2 reported Tuesday.

Dennis Mulvey was suspicious from the beginning.

"I went, 'Uh oh,' when they said they were giving away free Montgomery College credit cards. I knew the college did no such thing," he said.

He was one of at least three students at Montgomery College who were targeted for identity theft.

Mulvey received a call at home nearly three weeks ago.

The woman on the line offered him a $200 gift certificate along with the college credit card.

Mulvey knew the college did not offer credit cards, so he played along.

"Then she said, 'Can I have your mother's maiden name?' Then I gave her a false one. I gave her my cat's name," he said.

The caller was persistent, asking for bank account and Social Security numbers.

"I said, 'Not a chance.' And she hung up," Mulvey said.

He reported it to the school right away.

The next day, the college president sent out an e-mail to warn students, faculty and staff.

When the local newspaper ran an article about it, two more students came forward to say they also received the calls. One of the students actually volunteered her personal information.

No one has reported losing any money so far, and the school is doing all it can to keep it that way.

"We're looking at different things -- nothing concrete, looking at other ways to communicate with students, make sure other students are aware," said Steve Scheffler, a spokesman for Montgomery College.

For more on identity theft, visit the Federal Trade Commission at www.consumer.gov/idtheft.


Links We Like

Sponsored Content
You can pick your friends, but not your family -- or your neighbors. Here's what you need to know about how to deal with yours. More

Employers generally have options when it comes to hiring. Makes sure you present yourself as professionally as possible, or else. More

If you're looking to save on your next new vehicle, a low sticker price is just one aspect. Consider all the costs and make the right decision. More

Don't believe everything you hear about erectile dysfunction. Discover the truth behind these common misconceptions about ED. More

Most Popular

Marketplace

  • AutoClick to Expand

  • JobsClick to Expand

  • WomenClick to Expand

    • Healthy Living In Your 40s

      Your guide to looking and feeling your best.

    • Manage Stress, Find Balance

      The idea of living a balanced life may seem like an oxymoron. Yet working toward balance and self-care is key to feeling in control and more joyful at home and work.

    • Weight & Exercise: The Right Mix

      Being healthy is related to how well you take care of yourself. But it’s never too late! A woman can learn new, healthy habits at any age.

  • InsuranceClick to Expand

    • Auto Insurance Quotes

      Simply enter your zip code and get great deals on your car insurance from the top companies. Click here and start saving today!

    • Health Insurance Quotes

      No matter where you live, you shouldn’t have to pay too much for health insurance. Your zip code is all you need and we’ll do the rest to find you great insurance rates.

    • Home Insurance Quotes

      Your home is your most valuable asset. So make sure you have coverage that fits your needs and doesn’t break the bank.

    • Life Insurance Quotes

      What would happen to your family if you were suddenly gone? Don’t leave their future to chance and find top quality life insurance before it’s too late.

    • Business Insurance Quotes

      Don’t take chances when it comes to insuring your business. To get the best rates from top companies in your area just enter your zip code.

  • HomesClick to Expand

    • Real Estate 2010 -- Will It Be Better?

      There's little doubt that 2009 was a brutal year for many in real estate while for others it was a buying opportunity. What about 2010? Where are we headed?

    • 6 Common Home Pricing Mistakes

      When selling a home, your pricing strategy can make or break your chances for a quick sale. Price your home right by avoiding these mistakes sellers often make.

    • Staging Tips That Sell

      There is a lot you can do to get your home ready that doesn't cost much money; it just takes time and hard work.

    • To Sell Or Not To Sell

      Due to the current market, should you sell or not. Should you act as your own agent?

    • 5 Ways To Stop The Foreclosure Process

      Missed more than three mortgage payments, or your lender has filed a Notice of Default (NOD)? Even at this stage, there are 5 strategies to stop the foreclosure process.

Sponsored Links