Jay's Blog

                                         Health Appeal Scams
Another popular scam is an internet appeal for a sick or injured
person, often a child. These can be distinguished from local
appeals/fundraisers for someone in distress where you know about the
situation, and the people in charge. Even then there should be
controls on the funds which will be the subject of a future blog. For
the present, we will discuss the appeals that seem to pop up on the
internet. They are normally accompanied by a picture and a
heart-rending story. Beware; the story is often false and just a
scammer wanting money. People fall for the emotional appeal and send
funds. Usually requested are gift cards, which are untraceable. True,
there are people in need. There are also established legitimate
organizations who handle these matters in a professional manner. This
includes churches and places like St. Judes Hospital, Shriners
Hospitals, etc. If you are financially in a position to help, by all
means do so, but accomplish this where the money will truly go where
needed.
   It's the holidays. Beware of all the usual scams and schemes. If
you have any questions or concerns, contact Jay, Jon, Cami or Dani at
Tri-Valley Bank 712-625-2201. Don't ever hesitate to call or text me
directly at any time 712-242-5696.

  -Jay