No one wants to live with the fear of the cost or inconvenience of unexpected car trouble. Add to that the likelihood that most of us don't know for certain the date that our automobile warranty expires.

This combination creates fertile ground for crooks in a popular identity theft scam: the Expired Car Warranty scam. Consumers are contacted by telephone, email and U.S. Mail and "reminded" that their car warranty is about to expire, whether it is or not. Wily scammers lure consumers into providing personal and financial information under the pretense that they will extend their car warranties.

Often a recorded message begins by telling you that this is your last warning that your automobile warranty is about to expire. It doesn't matter whether your car is still under warranty, has been expired for 10 years or is actually about to expire.

These identity thieves ask for your credit card or checking account number saying that the numbers will insure that your existing warranty will remain in effect or will be reinstated. Whether by phone or mail they will tell you this is "urgent" or your "last chance" to keep your car under warranty or to reinstate your coverage.

Don't be fooled! Typically, car warranties are offered by car dealerships. New or used cars generally come with a standard warranty. You can purchase an extended warranty from them when you purchase your car or any time afterwards. Be wary of anyone contacting you by phone, mail or email offering to sell you a car warranty.

Some Helpful Reminders:

·Never give your personal and/or financial information over the phone when you did not initiate the call,
·Don't be fooled by the use of the word "urgent,"
·Check out any car warranty company by calling your local car dealership or the Better Business Bureau.
·Always get information in writing and discuss the proposal with a friend or family member before signing anything, and
·If you are contacted regarding your car warranty, contact our fraud hotline before making any financial transaction

For Assistance Call: District Attorney's Fraud Line 303-271-6980
email: casefraudline@jeffco.us
CASE is a Partnership of the District Attorney and the
Community to Prevent Financial Exploitation