We've just ben tipped by the Schroon Lake Chamber of Commerce that a local business was handed a  counterfeit 10 dollar bill as payment.

From The Chamber:

"Business owners should maintain vigilance even when accepting smaller bills to be on the look out for fakes. Protect yourself by learning about how to check the security features in current and previous designs of the $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 notes here."

And there's also a new scam involving text messages received via cell  phones from scammers masquerading as financial institutions, utility  companies or cell phone service providers. The text messages prompt  recipients to click on an imbedded link or call the listed number. When  consumers reply, they are then prompted to share personal identifiable  information such as a PIN or Social Security numbers

From the New York State Division of Consumer Protection:

"This method of scamming via phone text messaging is known as “SMiShing.” The name originates from “phishing,” the act of attempting to acquire personal information by an untrustworthy entity in an electronic communication. SMS (Short Message Service) is the technology used for text messages on cell phones.

The Division of Consumer Protection provides the following tips for consumers to protect themselves against this scam:

If you receive an unsolicited text from your bank or service provider requesting confirmation of personal information, do not respond or share any information. Legitimate messages from these companies will never ask for personal information.

If you are receiving any messages of this nature, forward them to 7726 (SPAM) to have your service provider block their number from your phone. This feature is completely free to use. 

Even if you receive only one of these spam messages, file a complaint to your service provider and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

If you want to verify the legitimacy of a message, contact your bank or service provider to see if they sent out the alert. For more information regarding scam prevention and mitigation, contact the Division of Consumer Protection at 474-8583.