Credit: Tom Sofield/LevittownNow.com
The Pennsylvania State Police on Monday warned residents to “remain vigilant” for election-related scams.
The scams often seek to take advantage of the information overload caused by the 2020 election that has gained more and more attention every week.
Advertisements
“While the PSP is not aware of any Pennsylvania-specific scams, many scammers operate across state and international borders and may contact Pennsylvania residents,” troopers said in an advisory bulletin.
Below are some general election scams that are circulating:
- Solicitations by phone or email for fake candidates or political action committees (PACs) asking for personally identifying information or pressuring you into donating over the telephone with a debit or credit card. Emails may look legitimate but have poor grammar and spelling, and links or attachments that, once installed, steal information.
- Fake polls that ask you for personally identifying information, ask questions designed to inflame your emotions, or ask you to purchase gift cards to cover “shipping fees” or “taxes” for a participation gift.
- People who claim to be able to register you to vote over the telephone, in-person, or online. They ask for personally identifying information or a fee to complete the application.
- Websites, social media memes, or robocalls that contain false information about political candidates and their positions. These sites and calls are designed to influence your vote by manipulating your emotions.
- Websites or Internet advertisements that look like they are legitimate voter registration or information sites. Visiting these sites or clicking on links exposes your computer to malware.
Troopers released the following recommendations to the public:
- Do not give banking or other personally identifying information to anyone who requests it. Information about PACs and candidates can be found at the Federal Election Commission’s website at https://www.fec.gov.
- Legitimate pollsters do not ask for gift cards or other compensation for participation, nor do they ask for personally identifying information. They do not pressure you into participating.
- Vet political information on social media through a news or fact-checking website before you share it. Scammers rely on sharing false information to further their objectives.
- Ensure your device has the latest security updates, including any applicable antivirus protection. Delete any email from senders you do not recognize or that has attachments you are not expecting or do not recognize.
- There is no cost to register to vote in Pennsylvania. If you require assistance, contact your county election office.
Advertisements
“The PSP encourages residents who fall victim to a scam to report it to their local police department,” troopers said.
Bucks County offers information on voting and how to register to vote, request a mail-in ballot, or to become a poll worker online. The Pennsylvania Department of State also has information.
Advertisements
Report a correction via email | Editorial standards and policies
