To: All DHS & AAA Field Offices
Important message from the Oregon Public Utility Commission SCAM ALERT – Please help spread the word to clients and customers re: online offers for free cellphone service (Lifeline)
The Oregon Public Utility Commission has issued an urgent SCAM alert cautioning consumers about online postings offering to help them to get a free cellphone. Assurance Wireless (Virgin Mobile) and SafeLink Wireless (TracFone) are authorized to provide free cell phone service (Lifeline) in Oregon to eligible consumers. The scammers claim to be representatives for either Safelink Wireless or Assurance Wireless. However, neither company is currently using representatives in Oregon to sign up customers.
How the scam works: Scammers advertise the free cell phones and free monthly wireless minutes on websites like Craigslist. After the consumer responds to the online solicitation, scammers ask for copies of personal identifying information, such as their driver’s license or identification card, and proof of participation in a public assistance program. These scammers claim they will complete and submit an application on your behalf for the free cell phone to be delivered to your home.
How to protect yourself:
- Don’t believe what you read. Be wary of individuals who request your personal information. They may not be affiliated with the company in Oregon they claim to represent and may not be authorized to collect your personal information.
- Contact the company. When in doubt, contact the company directly to apply or to verify the legitimacy of these online solicitations:
- Assurance Wireless at 1-877-378-4004 or online at www.assurancewireless.com
- SafeLink Wireless at 1-800-723-3546 or online at www.safelinkwireless.com
- Contact the Commission. Call or e-mail the Oregon Public Utility Commission if:
- You see an online solicitation for free cell phones with free monthly wireless minutes
- You have provided your personal information to a potential scammer in response to an online solicitation
- You have been contacted by anyone claiming to represent a “free cell phone” company.
Contact the Oregon Public Utility Commission 1-800-848-4442 (Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.); e-mail puc.rspf@state.or.us or visit www.rspf.org
Lifeline is a government benefit program that provides discounts on monthly telephone service (wireline or wireless) for eligible consumers. To receive Lifeline benefits, consumers must either have an income that is at or below 135% of the federal Poverty Guidelines or participate in specific public assistance programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).