SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Police Department is cautioning locals about a recent surge in home warranty scams targeting homeowners in the area.
The scam typically starts with a deceptive letter crafted to look as though it’s from the homeowner’s mortgage provider.
The correspondence, which seems to be from the company’s “Home Warranty Dept,” falsely asserts that the recipient’s home warranty is due for renewal.
The police urge residents to be vigilant and to scrutinize any such letters closely.
A key telltale sign of the scam is a disclaimer in tiny print at the bottom of the letter stating, “Not all consumers have previous coverage.
We are not affiliated with your current mortgage.”
The Better Business Bureau has offered advice to homeowners on how to steer clear of these and similar fraudulent schemes.
Homeowners who receive questionable letters regarding their mortgage or home warranty should not use the contact information provided.
Instead, they are advised to reach out to their lender directly using contact details found on their mortgage bill or the lender’s official website.
Additionally, the Better Business Bureau stresses that homeowners should not succumb to pressure to act hastily, especially if threats of losing their home are made.
If homeowners encounter such scare tactics, they should cease communication with the sender and contact their bank or lender to verify any claims.
The Springfield Police Department is committed to protecting residents from such fraudulent activities and encourages anyone who receives a suspicious home warranty letter to report it to the authorities.