Reimbursement For Victims Of Phone Scams

Mainers who have fallen victim to scam artists can apply for reimbursement of the lost money through Western Union.

Attorney General Janet Mills said in a media release that the reimbursements are available to people who were deceived into sending payments to scammers via Western Union's wire transfer service between January 1, 2004 and January 19, 2017. Anyone who qualifies can apply for compensation, as part of a settlement involving all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Western Union. The funds are being distributed through a $586 million fund administered by the Department of Justice's Victim Asset Recovery Program.

Any Mainer who told the Attorney General's office that they wired money to scammers through Western Union will receive a claim form in the mail in the coming weeks, which will contain instructions explaining how to file a claim for compensation. Anyone who feels they may qualify, but who doesn't receive a claim form can visit Western Union's reimbursement site or call 1-844-319-2124.

"Do not be embarrassed," AG Mills said in a media release, "please take this opportunity to get some of your money back." She goes on to say that it's illegal for a telemarketer to ask you to pay with a money transfer. So, if a telemarketer asks you to wire money, she says, "you already know they're a crook."

To receive restitution under the settlement, claim forms have to be mailed back to the settlement administrator by February 12, 2018. Anyone with questions or concerns, can reach out to Maine's Consumer Protection Division at consumer.mediation@maine.gov, or by calling (207) 626-8849 or 1-800-436-2131.