Posted on August 12, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
A recent conversation that North Judson Town Attorney Justin Schramm had with a representative of the Indiana Attorney General’s Office was highlighted during the council’s first meeting of the month.
He told the council, “I think that [Town Marshal] Kelly [Fisher] and [Ordinance Officer] Kerry [Rust] are doing a really good job with the ordinance citations, I just want to make it a point to say that when you’re making your citations you want to make sure you’re citing the correct ordinances.”
Schramm continued, “I got a call from the Attorney General’s Office down in Indianapolis, well not a call. [Clerk-Treasurer] Andrew [Rowe] got an inquiry about it so I called down and talked to them.”
He explained that he was asked to provide copies of a few of the town’s ordinances because a complaint had been levied.
The Deputy Attorney General he spoke with wasn’t able to divulge anything about the individual who filed the complaint but Schramm said they asked for copies of the Town’s nuisance ordinance and codes specifically related to sidewalks, towing and parked cars.
Schramm stated that no problems with past citations have been identified thus far but he just wants Marshal Fisher and Ordinance Officer Rust to be sure the correct ordinances continue to be listed on citations in the future.
On a similar note, Clerk-Treasurer Andrew Rowe mentioned that he will be looking into what it would cost to review and revamp the town’s codes and ordinances since they haven’t had a thorough update since about 2007.
Showing posts with label Indiana Attorney General's Office. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Indiana Attorney General's Office. Show all posts
Monday, August 12, 2019
Friday, May 3, 2019
Settlement Results in Funds to Combat Smoking
Posted on May 2, 2019
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
Tobacco cessation efforts got a boost this week after Indiana received more than $136 million from tobacco product manufacturers under the Master Settlement Agreement.
Indiana Attorney General Curtis Hill says the Master Settlement Agreement remains the largest civil settlement in U.S. History. The agreement prohibits and restricts tobacco advertising, marketing and promotional programs. Lawsuits against four of the largest tobacco manufacturers recover billions of dollars in state health care costs due to smoking-related illnesses, according to the Attorney General’s Office.
Hill said Indiana remains above the national average in percentage of smokers.
For information on how you can quit smoking, call Indiana’s Tobacco Quit line at 1-800-QuitNow.
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
Tobacco cessation efforts got a boost this week after Indiana received more than $136 million from tobacco product manufacturers under the Master Settlement Agreement.
Indiana Attorney General Curtis Hill says the Master Settlement Agreement remains the largest civil settlement in U.S. History. The agreement prohibits and restricts tobacco advertising, marketing and promotional programs. Lawsuits against four of the largest tobacco manufacturers recover billions of dollars in state health care costs due to smoking-related illnesses, according to the Attorney General’s Office.
Hill said Indiana remains above the national average in percentage of smokers.
For information on how you can quit smoking, call Indiana’s Tobacco Quit line at 1-800-QuitNow.
Wednesday, February 7, 2018
Taxpayers Urged to Beware of Tax-Related Identity Theft
Posted on February 7, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Indiana’s attorney general is urging Hoosiers to be on the lookout for tax fraud. Identity thieves can use other people’s social security numbers to file fraudulent tax returns and keep refunds for themselves.
Attorney General Curtis Hill says most victims won’t know right away that their identity has been stolen, but there are a few warning signs. Those who use e-filing may find out that a tax return has already been filed. Victims may also find that they owe additional taxes or that they’ve had collection actions taken against them for a year they didn’t file. Another sign of a scam is if IRS records show income from an employer you never worked for.
If you think someone may have stolen your identity, you can make a complaint with the Indiana Attorney General’s Office at IndianaConsumer.com or by calling 1-800-382-5516. More tips can be found on the Identity Theft Resource Center website.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Indiana’s attorney general is urging Hoosiers to be on the lookout for tax fraud. Identity thieves can use other people’s social security numbers to file fraudulent tax returns and keep refunds for themselves.
Attorney General Curtis Hill says most victims won’t know right away that their identity has been stolen, but there are a few warning signs. Those who use e-filing may find out that a tax return has already been filed. Victims may also find that they owe additional taxes or that they’ve had collection actions taken against them for a year they didn’t file. Another sign of a scam is if IRS records show income from an employer you never worked for.
If you think someone may have stolen your identity, you can make a complaint with the Indiana Attorney General’s Office at IndianaConsumer.com or by calling 1-800-382-5516. More tips can be found on the Identity Theft Resource Center website.
Tuesday, February 6, 2018
Today is Safer Internet Day in the USA
Posted on February 6, 2018
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Nowadays, internet usage is so common and some may not realize the dangers that could be lurking behind the screen. Today is recognized as Safer Internet Day.
According to organization representatives, the initiative aims to create an internet environment that empowers everyone to use technology responsibly, respectfully critically and creatively. It is geared toward children and young people as well as parents, caregivers and educators to make the most of out the internet’s potential to bring people together.
On Safer Internet Day, consider some of these tips from Indiana’s Attorney General’s Office.
First off, realize the web is a lot more public and permanent than it seems, be smart about what you post and what you say to others while online. Also, understand that sharing pictures of a sexual nature can land you in serious trouble as an underage minor. Those pictures, even when shared with other minors, are considered child pornography, a very serious crime.
Lastly, if you end up feeling uncomfortable with something that takes place online, don’t be afraid to report it. Depending on the case you can contact site management, the CyberTipLine, which serves to protect children from sexual exploitation, or even the local police if the incident is severe enough.
These tips are for young people to use and guardians and educators to encourage in order to help create a safer “cyber-space” for all.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Nowadays, internet usage is so common and some may not realize the dangers that could be lurking behind the screen. Today is recognized as Safer Internet Day.
According to organization representatives, the initiative aims to create an internet environment that empowers everyone to use technology responsibly, respectfully critically and creatively. It is geared toward children and young people as well as parents, caregivers and educators to make the most of out the internet’s potential to bring people together.
On Safer Internet Day, consider some of these tips from Indiana’s Attorney General’s Office.
First off, realize the web is a lot more public and permanent than it seems, be smart about what you post and what you say to others while online. Also, understand that sharing pictures of a sexual nature can land you in serious trouble as an underage minor. Those pictures, even when shared with other minors, are considered child pornography, a very serious crime.
Lastly, if you end up feeling uncomfortable with something that takes place online, don’t be afraid to report it. Depending on the case you can contact site management, the CyberTipLine, which serves to protect children from sexual exploitation, or even the local police if the incident is severe enough.
These tips are for young people to use and guardians and educators to encourage in order to help create a safer “cyber-space” for all.
Tuesday, July 25, 2017
Attorney General Warns Hoosiers of Tech Support Scams
Posted on July 25, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
If you see a pop-up saying your computer has a virus, there’s a good chance it’s a scam. That’s according to Indiana Attorney General Curtis Hill.
The messages typically resemble security alerts from legitimate sources. However, by following the instructions and giving remote access to your computer, scammers can obtain personal information, user names, and passwords, and steal your identity. In addition to pop-up alerts, scammers may also contact victims by phone, claiming to be from Microsoft or another trusted company.
The Attorney General’s Office says its Consumer Protection Division has gotten 111 tech support complaints so far this year.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
If you see a pop-up saying your computer has a virus, there’s a good chance it’s a scam. That’s according to Indiana Attorney General Curtis Hill.
The messages typically resemble security alerts from legitimate sources. However, by following the instructions and giving remote access to your computer, scammers can obtain personal information, user names, and passwords, and steal your identity. In addition to pop-up alerts, scammers may also contact victims by phone, claiming to be from Microsoft or another trusted company.
The Attorney General’s Office says its Consumer Protection Division has gotten 111 tech support complaints so far this year.
Monday, November 14, 2016
Do Not Call Deadline Approaching
Posted on November 14, 2016
Author Mary Perren, WKVI
The Indiana Attorney General’s Office credits nearly 3,500 complaints filed with his office about an IRS imposter scam for cutting down on the number of phony phone calls. They resulted in a raid in Indiana last month, which broke up the telemarketing ring. Since then Attorney General Greg Zeoller says complaints have dropped from nearly 500 in September to just 67 in October.
In early October, Indian Police arrested 70 people in Mumbai responsible for the so-called IRS imposter scam. In late October the U.S. attorney general’s office arrested nearly 20 alleged co-conspirators in this country. Scam callers claim to be from the IRS and threaten to arrest people unless the immediately pay delinquent taxes.
Zoeller expects another scam to pop up in its place and encourages Hoosiers to continue to be vigilant in not offering personal or financial information to people who contact them by phone.
Zoeller said the best way for people to know whether a call they are receiving is a scam is by registering their number on the Do Not Call list. Legitimate companies will not call numbers on the Do Not Call list, so if someone is on the list and is receiving unsolicited contact, it is likely a scam.
The next quarterly deadline to register cellular and landline residential phone numbers on the Do Not Call list is midnight EST on Tuesday, Nov. 15. The updated list will take effect Jan. 1, 2017.
To sign up or to confirm a number is on the Do Not Call list, visit www.IndianaConsumer.com or call 1-888-834-9969. Consumers do not need to re-register unless their address has changed. To achieve compliance with Indiana law, telemarketing companies may obtain a copy of the list from the Attorney General’s Office.
Avoid getting scammed over the phone by following these tips:
Additionally, Zoeller urged Hoosiers to take advantage of available call-blocking options to help stop scam calls. The Attorney General’s Office created a non-exhaustive, call-blocking reference sheet to inform the public about available options and encourage development of new options. This reference sheet outlines various call-blocking applications and information about each option, including who is able to use it, the cost, benefits, and weaknesses, and how to get it.
People who receive an unwanted call or are targeted by a phone scam can file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office by visiting www.IndianaConsumer.com or calling 1-800-382-5516.
Author Mary Perren, WKVI
The Indiana Attorney General’s Office credits nearly 3,500 complaints filed with his office about an IRS imposter scam for cutting down on the number of phony phone calls. They resulted in a raid in Indiana last month, which broke up the telemarketing ring. Since then Attorney General Greg Zeoller says complaints have dropped from nearly 500 in September to just 67 in October.
In early October, Indian Police arrested 70 people in Mumbai responsible for the so-called IRS imposter scam. In late October the U.S. attorney general’s office arrested nearly 20 alleged co-conspirators in this country. Scam callers claim to be from the IRS and threaten to arrest people unless the immediately pay delinquent taxes.
Zoeller expects another scam to pop up in its place and encourages Hoosiers to continue to be vigilant in not offering personal or financial information to people who contact them by phone.
Zoeller said the best way for people to know whether a call they are receiving is a scam is by registering their number on the Do Not Call list. Legitimate companies will not call numbers on the Do Not Call list, so if someone is on the list and is receiving unsolicited contact, it is likely a scam.
The next quarterly deadline to register cellular and landline residential phone numbers on the Do Not Call list is midnight EST on Tuesday, Nov. 15. The updated list will take effect Jan. 1, 2017.
To sign up or to confirm a number is on the Do Not Call list, visit www.IndianaConsumer.com or call 1-888-834-9969. Consumers do not need to re-register unless their address has changed. To achieve compliance with Indiana law, telemarketing companies may obtain a copy of the list from the Attorney General’s Office.
Avoid getting scammed over the phone by following these tips:
- Don’t let a telephone solicitor pressure you to make an immediate decision.
- Ask for a caller’s contact information and tell them you will call them back.
- Verify that the number they give you is tied to a legitimate company or agency by doing your own research.
- Know that most government entities, including the IRS, will not initiate contact over the phone. Additionally, they will never ask you for credit card, debit card or prepaid card information over the phone.
- Do not wire any money or make payments over the phone unless you have independently verified the caller.Check unfamiliar companies with the AG’s Office or the Better Business Bureau before agreeing to a purchase.
- Hang up on recorded message calls or “robocalls.” Don’t press any numbers.
Additionally, Zoeller urged Hoosiers to take advantage of available call-blocking options to help stop scam calls. The Attorney General’s Office created a non-exhaustive, call-blocking reference sheet to inform the public about available options and encourage development of new options. This reference sheet outlines various call-blocking applications and information about each option, including who is able to use it, the cost, benefits, and weaknesses, and how to get it.
People who receive an unwanted call or are targeted by a phone scam can file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office by visiting www.IndianaConsumer.com or calling 1-800-382-5516.
Friday, August 19, 2016
Attorney General Warns of Potential Home Repair Scams
Posted on August 19, 2016
Author Mary Perren, WKVI
Hoosiers who sustained storm damage as a result of this week’s torrential rains are urged to proceed with caution when it comes to making repairs. The Indiana Attorney General’s Office warns home improvement scammers often lurk and prey on situations such as these by conning people into paying for shoddy, overpriced work.
So-called storm chasers travel door-to-door and urge immediate action or tempting discounts. Their goal is to keep the customer from checking the company’s references. Such contractors are often based out-of-state and offer to do work on the spot. Although such offers may be tempting, the attorney general’s office warns they can be risky without research.
They’ve received more than 950 home improvement scam complaints so far this year. The most problems were reported with roof repair, chimney and gutter work.
Consumers are urged to do their research into what they can afford and want done, get multiple price quotes from different contractors and check with the Better Business Bureau and Attorney General’s Office to see if any complaints have been filed.
Before hiring a contractor, make sure he is locally licensed, bonded and insured. A performance bond provides the most direct consumer protection. Check with your local building or code enforcement department for information.
Also ask the contractor for references you can contact directly to determine the quality and timeliness of his or her work. If the contractor came to your door unsolicited, make sure you receive a notice of your ability to cancel the contract within three days for a full refund before signing any contract.
Never pay for the entire project before the work begins. Do not pay more than a third of the total cost as a down payment and make sure that any subsequent payments or “draws” correspond to definite, significant and tangible job progress.
Make sure all required permits are obtained. Your local building department can tell you when they are needed and advise if they have been pulled by the contractor.
Visit home improvement scam for more information. If you believe you’ve been scammed by a home repair contractor, visit IndianaConsumer.com to file a complaint or call 1-800-382-5516.
Author Mary Perren, WKVI
Hoosiers who sustained storm damage as a result of this week’s torrential rains are urged to proceed with caution when it comes to making repairs. The Indiana Attorney General’s Office warns home improvement scammers often lurk and prey on situations such as these by conning people into paying for shoddy, overpriced work.
So-called storm chasers travel door-to-door and urge immediate action or tempting discounts. Their goal is to keep the customer from checking the company’s references. Such contractors are often based out-of-state and offer to do work on the spot. Although such offers may be tempting, the attorney general’s office warns they can be risky without research.
They’ve received more than 950 home improvement scam complaints so far this year. The most problems were reported with roof repair, chimney and gutter work.
Consumers are urged to do their research into what they can afford and want done, get multiple price quotes from different contractors and check with the Better Business Bureau and Attorney General’s Office to see if any complaints have been filed.
Before hiring a contractor, make sure he is locally licensed, bonded and insured. A performance bond provides the most direct consumer protection. Check with your local building or code enforcement department for information.
Also ask the contractor for references you can contact directly to determine the quality and timeliness of his or her work. If the contractor came to your door unsolicited, make sure you receive a notice of your ability to cancel the contract within three days for a full refund before signing any contract.
Never pay for the entire project before the work begins. Do not pay more than a third of the total cost as a down payment and make sure that any subsequent payments or “draws” correspond to definite, significant and tangible job progress.
Make sure all required permits are obtained. Your local building department can tell you when they are needed and advise if they have been pulled by the contractor.
Visit home improvement scam for more information. If you believe you’ve been scammed by a home repair contractor, visit IndianaConsumer.com to file a complaint or call 1-800-382-5516.
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