Staff Reports
Lockport Union-Sun & Journal
September 12, 2008 01:41 am
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The New York State Police is warning residents about a possible fraud scheme involving Direct TV and Dish Network customers.
Between August 2005 and November 2007, a subcontractor hired by both companies apparently obtained numerous names and Social Security numbers in order to submit orders for customers who did not request services.
The victims whose names and Social Security numbers were used received notices from collection agencies, or bills from Direct TV or Dish Network. In some cases, customers received the bills at their address but under someone else’s name.
The subcontractor reportedly submitted the fraudulent orders for financial gain.
Both companies are aware of the situation and are no longer doing business with the subcontractor, state police said.
Victims have come forward in several Western New York communities, including Niagara Falls, Rochester and Jamestown.
State police believe there may be other victims unaccounted for.
Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of this crime is asked to contact Investigator Christopher Puckett at 297-8730.
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