Watch out for phony calls this election

Here we go again folks, another election and another excuse for fraudsters to double down on their phone scams.

As if legitimate political action committees and political party solicitation aren't cumbersome enough, we can once again expect to start getting calls, texts and emails from scammers parading as these entities.

This has been a problem in the past, and it almost certainly will happen this year. At the start of the month, likely in preparation for these inevitable harassments, the American Association of Retired Persons, or as we usually call it: AARP, put out its notice warning folks about these scams.

As one goes, the caller rings you up and tells you that you're not registered to vote so you better hand over personal information if you want to be counted by March 5. Ignore these. If you are worried about your registration status, go directly to the county and check with the elections office by calling 530-538-7761.

Our good friend the prepaid gift card surprisingly makes its return as well. AARP noted another scam in which fake pollsters call asking for your opinions on ballot items in exchange for a — you guessed it — gift card! This one takes a silly turn when they, for God knows what reasons, need your credit card information. They'll most likely pretend they need it for shipping but really they just want your bank info. Don't give in.

There's nothing wrong with being politically active, and I'll go on record saying that the more voters voting, the better in every single case. But the best way to go about partaking in local, state and federal politics is to be proactive and do your research. Don't wait for solicitors to come to you because they will more than likely have a not-sowholesome game in mind.

As always, stay safe out there folks and avoid going out on these windy days.

Scam of the Week generally runs every Tuesday. Readers are welcome to contact reporter Jake Hutchison to report scams and potential scams they have come in contact with by calling 828-1329 or via email at jhutchison@ chicoer.com.