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Kentuckians Losing Millions Annually to Scams and Identity Theft

Ryland Barton

The Federal Trade Commission says Kentuckians lost more than $6 million last year to scammers and identity thieves.

A new report from the FTC shows Kentuckians made more than 22,000 fraud reports, and 3,000 reports of identity theft in 2017.

The state Attorney General’s Office says the report is proof that Kentuckians need to take steps to avoid being the victims of identity theft and scams.

The AG’s Office recommends updating and strengthening online passwords, cleaning out and shredding old documents with sensitive personal information, and avoiding giving out information like Social Security Numbers over the phone.

Kentuckians can also sign up for scam alerts. By texting the words KYOAG Scam to GOV311 (468311) or visiting ag.ky.gov,Kentuckians can enroll in Attorney Genearl Andy Beshear’s Scam Alerts program. Those enrolled receive text messages or email alerts when new and trending scams are reported in Kentucky and tips on how to avoid falling victim to the latest scam.

Kevin is the News Director at WKU Public Radio. He has been with the station since 1999, and was previously the Assistant News Director, and also served as local host of Morning Edition.
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