Fraud or Scam Check – When to Call for Help
Overview
If you’re unsure whether a message, call, email, or offer may be a scam, you can Call a Friend at askGTX for guidance on what steps to take next. Our ambassadors can help you review common warning signs and share general tips that may help before you share personal information or lose money.
If you have already been the victim of fraud, please contact 911 or your local police department to file a report.
Tips to Spot Potential Scams
Use these quick checks before responding to unexpected communications:
1. Pressure or Urgency
Scammers often insist that you must act immediately. They may demand that you stay on the line, say you cannot hang up, or warn that a consequence will follow if you do — such as an account closure, frozen funds, or legal action. These tactics are meant to prevent you from thinking clearly or checking the information.
2. Requests for Money or Gift Cards
Legitimate agencies will never ask for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or prepaid debit cards.
3. Unsolicited Links or Attachments
Unexpected links or attachments may be malicious. When in doubt, do not click—verify through the official website or phone number.
4. Threats of Arrest or Legal Action
Government agencies do not threaten arrest over the phone, email, or text.
5. Too Good to Be True Offers
Prize winnings, surprise refunds, or job offers that require upfront payment are common scam tactics.
6. Computer Locked Pop-Ups
Legitimate companies—such as Microsoft—do not lock your computer screen or display pop-ups requiring you to call a phone number to fix an issue.
Any pop-up claiming your computer is “locked,” “infected,” or requires urgent action is a scam designed to:
- Steal personal or financial information
- Demand payment for fake “repairs”
- Convince you to give remote access to your computer
If you see a pop-up like this, do not call the number and do not give any information.
If You Think You’re Being Targeted
If something doesn’t feel right, you can Call a Friend at askGTX before taking any action. Our ambassadors can walk through common scam warning signs with you, help you think through what you’re seeing or hearing, and guide you toward the safest next steps.
We may encourage you to:
- Double-check the information using official websites or known phone numbers
- Reach out to your service provider, bank/financial institution, or a trusted family member
- Take a moment to pause before responding, clicking, or sharing information
If Fraud Has Already Happened
Please contact your local police department to file an official report.
If you live or work in Georgetown, contact us using the numbers below.
Contact Us
Email: pd@georgetowntexas.gov
Emergency: 911
Non-Emergency: 512-930-3510
Address:
Georgetown Police Department
3500 D. B. Wood Road
Georgetown, TX 78628