Watch out for the `loan scam'

Today's Sound Off is about a new fraud alert — fake loans.

DEAR HELOISE >> Recently, my husband and I have been getting calls and emails from people who claim to represent loan companies. They claim we've been approved for loans that range from $1,500 to $5,000. The problem is that we didn't apply for a loan and don't need or want one.

After contacting my bank, I found out a “loan scam” has been making its rounds by contacting people through social media, texts, phone calls and, on occasion, letters. The scammers usually ask for an upfront fee to process your application. They promise you a guaranteed approval and ask for things such as your bank account password and numbers, Social Security information, and more. If you are contacted by these scammers, the bank recommends that you hang up immediately.

As sincere as these scammers may seem, they are trying to fool you into divulging private information so that they can empty your bank account. If, by chance, you gave out financial information to a scammer, contact your bank and let them know the situation. Believe me, they've heard it all before and know what to do to help you safeguard your finances.

If you are like most people out there today, you've probably worked hard for what you have. You have bills to pay and other financial obligations. Don't let an anonymous thief steal what you've worked for over the years.

— Renee K., Mesa,

Arizona

DEAR READERS >> Having problems with neighbors, whether it be harassment, noise complaints, dogs barking, etc.? Here are a few hints:

• Don't ignore the problem. See if you can contact your neighbor and politely discuss the problem.

• If the problem persists, contact your HOA and ask for their assistance in resolving the issue. • Review your association's documents of their do's and don'ts.

• Document all efforts to resolve the situation in case you have to file a lawsuit instead.

DEAR HELOISE >> Never leave dryer lint out for birds to use when they're nest-building. Everything toxic that is in your clothes, such as detergent, bleach and fabric softener, are harmful to birds. Yes, the lint looks fuzzy and soft, but over time, it gets wet and turns as hard as cement. Instead, destroy the lint.

— Suzie, from

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

DEAR SUZIE >> After checking with a couple of veterinarians, I was told that lint from the dryer is indeed very harmful to birds, just as dryer sheets are harmful to birds. You should also never put out string, yarn or pet hair. Pet hair can easily contain chemicals from various shampoos and flea treatments. You can put out all-natural, heattreated pine and aspen or paper pellets.

Write to Heloise at P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000; Fax 210-HELOISE; or email Heloise@Heloise.com.