Motorists Warned to Avoid Telephone Fraud

Tips to protect your identity

WASHINGTON, Sept. 21, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Identity thieves are targeting unsuspecting victims claiming they have unpaid red light camera tickets, according to media reports. Due to reported telephone scams, the National Coalition for Safer Roads (NCSR) is providing this information to protect people off the road by warning motorists to avoid being duped by these harmful predators.

NCSR recommends following these tips to protect against identity theft:

1. Never give out personal or financial information over the phone unless you initiate the call

Scammers use various tactics to pry personal information away from their targets. Be vigilant and never give out personal or financial information when solicited by a stranger on the phone.

2. Ask questions

Ask for their organization, name, title, supervisor and phone number, as well as the details of the ticket they claim you received. Arm yourself with a list of information to verify their identity.

3. Get it in writing

If it's a real ticket, there will be a written record of your violation. Hang up and contact your local police department to request documentation of any claimed ticket.

4. Trust your instincts

If someone is trying to solicit your personal information, get their contact information, hang up and then do your own research to verify that the caller represents a legitimate organization.

5. Monitor your accounts

If you have been contacted by these scammers contact the authorities and look closely at your financial statements to ensure there are no fraudulent transactions.

NCSR works to keep motorists, pedestrians, cyclists and passengers safe on the roads.

NCSR was organized under the Internal Revenue Code as a 501(c)(6) organization, with the express purpose of advocating on behalf of the traffic safety technology industry. NCSR has received funds from American Traffic Solutions, and has support from members and organizations who support the adoption of traffic safety technology because it is proven to save lives. Our partners include the National Safety Council; Child Safety Network; National Organizations for Youth Safety; America Walks; and Red Means Stop as well as numerous police departments, medical professionals, safety advocates, industry leaders, community leaders and concerned citizens.

For more information, visit http://SafeRoadsSaveLives.org/, follow @SaferRoadsUSA on Twitter and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/SaferRoadsUSA.

SOURCE National Coalition for Safer Roads