Phone Scam Warning to Maine Businesses

Maine Attorney General Janet Mills has issued a warning about a new phone scam that targets business owners. Callers claim to be from the Office of Tourism.

The scam involves a fictional publication. Business owners are being approached about buying advertising and then payment is demanded immediately over the phone.

But Mills says it's a classic scam.

"Beware cold calls that pressure you to make an immediate payment," said Attorney General Janet T. Mills. "A legitimate business will give you the time to think about your purchase and won't require cash or a pre-paid debit card transaction based on a phone conversation. If you receive one of these calls - hang up. If you have questions, call the Maine Office of Tourism in Augusta. Never give personal or financial information out over the phone on calls you did not initiate. If someone calls you and asks you to make payment by money order or pre-paid debit card, that is very big red flag that you are about to be scammed."

The Maine Office of Tourism can be reached at (207) 624-7843.

She says if you receive one of these calls, do not engage the caller at all. The best solution is to hang up immediately. For more information, contact the Consumer Protection Division of the Maine Attorney General's Office at 800-436-2131.