Scam Alert: Thieves Again Targeting Your Personal Info and Money Thanks to Election Season

Scammers exploit a loophole in the National Do Not Call Registry that allows political organizations to conduct telemarketing calls

With the general election approaching, North Carolinians report a surge in calls and texts claiming to be from campaigns or election officials. Because political organizations are exempt from the National Do Not Call Registry, scammers use this rule to pose as volunteers or poll workers. Their goal is to steal your personal information or solicit fraudulent donations. Stay alert and verify before you respond to any unsolicited political outreach.

Political Calls Are Exempt

Federal law allows calls and texts from candidates campaigns and political action committees even if your number is on the Do Not Call Registry. Legitimate organizations may ask for volunteer sign ups or donations. Scammers exploit this exemption by spoofing campaign callers to request donations or personal data. Never assume a call from a local area code is genuine.

Fake Voter Verification and Re-Registration

Scammers claim they must verify or re-register your voter information to make your vote count. In reality no election office conducts mass verification by phone. The North Carolina State Board of Elections only accepts new registrations and updates via its secure online portal or by mail. Hang up on anyone who asks for your Social Security number driver license number or bank account details under the guise of voter verification.

Online and Phone Voter Registration Scams

Some fraudsters offer to register you over the phone for a “small processing fee.” Voter registration in North Carolina is always free and must be completed online at the State Board of Elections website or by submitting a paper form. Any request for payment is a scam. If you have doubts call your county board of elections directly using the number listed on the SBE site.

Fraudulent Campaign Donation Requests

Legitimate campaigns may solicit donations, but they will not pressure you or refuse to accept online contributions. Scammers claiming to represent a candidate ask for credit card or gift card information by phone. Always navigate to the official campaign’s website or mailing address to make contributions. Never send funds or card numbers to someone who calls you uninvited.

Bogus Election Surveys with “Prizes”

Survey scams promise gift cards or merchandise in exchange for completing a political questionnaire. After answering questions they request your credit card to cover shipping. These prizes do not exist and your card is charged for a phony fee. Genuine polling firms never ask for payment to participate. Decline any survey that requests financial information.

Myths About Voting by Phone, Email or Text

Only two methods are valid: in person at a designated polling place or by returning a completed mail ballot. No one can vote by phone email or text. Scammers exploit confusion from past years by offering “text to vote” or “email your ballot.” If someone claims to process a vote remotely for a fee or personal details, hang up immediately.

North Carolina Early Voting and Absentee Ballot Resources

Early voting in North Carolina runs from October 17 to November 2, 2024. You may vote in person at any early voting site in your county. To request an absentee ballot, complete the official form at the SBE website by October 29, 2024. Do not rely on third parties who offer to “handle” your ballot. Only submit ballots via mail or hand delivery to your county board of elections.

How to Report Election Scams

• File a complaint with the North Carolina State Board of Elections online or call (888) 522-4723
• Report fraud to the North Carolina Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division at (919) 814-5400
• Submit scam calls and texts to the Federal Communications Commission at consumercomplaints.fcc.gov
• Notify your phone carrier about spoofed numbers to block future calls

Tips to Protect Yourself

• Never provide personal or financial information to unsolicited political callers
• Verify requests by calling the official campaign office or election board number
• Donate or register only through official campaign websites or the SBE portal
• Ignore calls promising prizes or suggesting alternative voting methods
• Educate family and friends, especially seniors, about these election season scams

By understanding the exemptions for political calls and using official channels for voter services and donations, you can avoid election season fraud and keep your information and money safe.