blivingston@themeridianstar.com
It is said there is a sucker born every minute.
Roy Gibbens, however, is no sucker.
On Oct. 29, Gibbens, of Meridian, received an e-mail that at first glance makes the recipient believe it was sent by the IRS. The notice concerns a supposed tax refund. It instructs you how you can claim money the e-mail says is yours if you fill out the form.
This is a scam.
"I became suspicious from the start because there has been nothing on the news about another tax refund check to American citizens that had been approved," said Gibbens. "There's been talk of other types of incentives to stimulate the economy but nothing quite like this. Plus, it was via the Internet."
The e-mail cites alleged tax codes in an attempt to make everything seem official and legal. It even tells you how much you are entitled to if you continue to the next step. In Gibbens' case he was supposed to receive $120.50.
What may hook unsuspecting responders to the e-mail is the Web site you are asked to go to in order to fill out a form to claim your money. It is complete with the IRS logo and other visual indications this is the real deal. What really made the red light come on for Gibbens, however, was the type of information you were asked to enter and then send.
There are boxes for your social security number, credit card information including pin number and banking information. Things Gibbens figured the real IRS wouldn't need because they already know much of that information.
"I called the IRS and they confirmed this was a scam," said Gibbens. "They don't do business of this sort over the Internet."
The IRS asked Gibbens to send in the information he received so they can track the website, which he gladly did.
"I hate to think somebody might actually fall for this ruse," Gibbens said. "I just didn't feel right about not reporting this and getting the word out this scam is circulating out there."
Officials continually warn the general public to not give out important financial information through the Internet or by telephone until they are certain they are not being targeted by a scam artist. Asking questions and being wary of fantastic opportunities is the best way to not become a victim.
Local News
Beware of tax refund scam
E-mail can turn into empty bank account
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In memory of those who died
A 21-gun salute is a common part of any Memorial Day program.
But the release of 21 snow white doves representing the peace we enjoy today because of those who have fallen in battle was a rare treat of the Second Annual Memorial Day Program held Monday afternoon at Magnolia Cemetery in Meridian. -
Choctaw Expressions to be showcased
The Mississippi Craft Center will present Choctaw Expressions as the featured cultural and historical exhibit for the month of June.
The presentation will showcase the rich and unique heritage of the Mississippi Choctaw Indians with traditional cultural arts and artifacts. The exhibition is set to open to the public on Friday, June 1 at 10 a.m. The Mississippi Craft Center, located in Ridgeland, is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with free admission and will highlight this unique event through June 30. -
Earth’s Bounty Festival Saturday
Residents in the Meridian area will have the opportunity to purchase locally grown or made products throughout the summer and fall through the Earth’s Bounty festival.
The expanded version of the current farmer's market will take place on the first Saturday of every month from June-November at Singing Brakeman Park in Meridian near Union Station. -
WWI soldier’s family receives Purple Heart
About three weeks before the end of WW I, two young officers with the 320 Machine Gun Battalion crept through the battered moonscape of France on a mission to find new positions for their weapons.
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Man dies of gunshot wound
Investigators with the Lauderdale County Sheriff's Department are investigating a shooting incident that occurred Saturday morning in which one person died.
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Leading Edges uses technology to enhance advertising
If local advertising agency Leading Edges has its way, pretty soon you will be using your iPhone or iPad to bring its clients' ads to life.
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Meridian soldier to receive posthumous Purple Heart
- Partnership in place for safety blitz
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Keeping time with the Disabled American Veterans
When you are responsible for transporting area veterans to Jackson to meet their medical appointments, you better be on time.
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