How to tell if a class-action settlement notice is real or a scam in New Mexico
New Mexicans should verify class-action settlement notices to avoid scams, checking official websites and avoiding requests for upfront payments.Summary
With class-action settlements totaling billions annually, it's crucial for New Mexico residents to determine if a settlement notice is legitimate. Experts advise against dismissing notices outright, but caution is necessary. AARP recommends verifying the settlement through its official website, checking for media coverage on sites like ClassAction.org or TopClassActions.com, and consulting the Federal Trade Commission's refund list. Be wary of requests for sensitive information like Social Security numbers or bank details, as well as any demands for processing fees.
Separately, the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court warns of scammers posing as court officials demanding immediate payment over the phone. The court emphasizes that judgments are communicated via mail or in person, and never through unsolicited calls. They also caution against fraudulent text messages regarding unpaid traffic fines, advising residents to verify information through the court's website or by phone.
If you suspect a scam, contact Ellen Marks at the Albuquerque Journal or the New Mexico Consumer Protection Division to report it.
(Source：Albuquerque Journal)