FREE JAGUAR AT THE MALL – JUST FILL OUT THE SURVEY – SAN JOSE POLICE FRAUD DETECTIVE SAYS: “DON’T DO IT”.

In a recent interview with Frank Keffer of the San Jose Police department he reiterated advice that KnightsBridge Castle has provided to clients for a long time – don’t fill out surveys of your interests, buying habits, or which ask for personal information such as income. Our perspective on this scam is a bit theoretical, but Detective Keffer’s view is very practical.

When you see that new car at the mall you may be tempted to fill out the marketing survey and take a chance at winning a new car. Keffer advises you resist the temptation. Information you provide will be collected by marketing companies and potentially sold to hundreds of legitimate and not so legitimate data mining companies. Their purpose is to harvest the data and learn as much about you as possible. If identity theft does not follow, then marketing blitzes surely will.

Ask your self, “Why would someone give away a car in exchange for survey information?” The answer – survey information has value to marketers and thieves.

That car by the way, is probably traveling throughout the state our country as an inducement to provide personal information. Its not a local contest. Your chances of winning are very slim indeed – in fact the car may never be awarded at all.