This is a Scam warning from Martha J Duncan-Perez, Care Coordinator – Health Home Program Goldendale/East Klickitat County
I just completed a home visit with a HH client who received a post card from “AAPP”. I wanted to provide your office a heads up as the client’s caregiver reported seeing the same post card arriving at the home of other clients in Goldendale area. Is this something that can be announced over the local radio station?
This is a known imposter scam designed to steal your personal and financial information. Do not call the number or scan the QR code on the postcard.
How the Scam Works
- The Hook: You receive a postcard claiming a company (often listed as AAPP or 88PP) is holding $309.64 in grocery and gas vouchers for you.
- The Fake Urgency: It includes a “personal claim number” and warns that you must act immediately to avoid “automatic forfeiture”.
- The Trap: If you call, scammers often ask for a small “shipping” or “processing” fee (typically around $5.00). Once they have your credit or debit card details, they may charge your account for large, unauthorized amounts.
- Impersonation: The name “AAPP” is intentionally used to trick people into thinking it is from AARP, a legitimate organization that is not actually involved.
What You Should Do
- Do Not Respond: Ignore the instructions on the card. Do not provide any personal info or payment details.
- Report It: You can help warn others by reporting the specific details of your postcard to the BBB Scam Tracker.
- Check Your Accounts: If you have already provided payment information, contact your bank or credit card company immediately to report fraud and block further charges.
- Verify Unclaimed Money: If you think you might actually have unclaimed assets, check official sources like Unclaimed.org instead of responding to unsolicited mail.