A Pana resident narrowly missed being the victim of a fraud scheme to steal their personal information and money. The Better Business Bureau states that unsuspecting people communicating with online scammers has risen over 60% with online scams and fraud schemes making up 68% of all reports to the BBB.

Pana Police Chief Daniel Bland explained the situation where a resident came into the Pana Police Department to ask why a caller with the PPD caller ID was asking for their personal information and funds from their bank. Chief Bland says it was the skepticism, awareness and ultimately contact with Pana Police that saved the person from identity theft and financial ruin.

Chief Bland says these crimes are rampant, so always practice safety while doing anything online like purchasing items, filling out documents, and even talking to a representative over the phone.

Fraudsters and scammers have a way of tapping into a victim's emotions, creating scenarios like requesting payments or services will be cut off or that a family member is in trouble and your money is needed to save them. These high-stress and surprising scam tactics have been successful for fraudsters and Chief Bland is sending the message to remain vigilant while online.

If you or someone you know is the victim of an online scam you can contact your local law enforcement and or file a report at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

Pana Police Chief Daniel Bland appeared as a guest on the WTIM Pana Morning Show.